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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 

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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



AY 9 1887 



ROLLAND BANE; 



A THRILLING ROMANCE 



OF THE 



Hazel Mountains of Pennsylvania, 



IN VERSE. 



/ 
BY DR. T. J. PEARCE. 




New York: : 

HURST & CO., PUBLISHERS, 

123 Nassau Stkeet. 



\ 



s->n 






Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1886, by 

T. J. PEARCE, 
in the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. 



£V- 



ARGYLE PRESS, 

Printing ano BooKBiNOtNO, 

24 & 26 W008TER ST., N. V. 



PREFACE. 



The author places this little work before the public after much hesi- 
tation and with many forebodings. It is published in deference to tlie 
wishes, and at the earnest solicitation of, a large circle of friends. He is 
highly sensible of his own incompetency as a writer of verse, and of the 
infinite number of imperfections in the work. It has been written under 
the heavy strain and constant interruptions of a large professional prac- 
tice. There is some romance, but little poetry, in the daily life of a phy- 
sician. With an intense admiration, almost workship, for the great mas- 
ters of poesy, past and present, and innocent of any attempt to imitate 
them, the author submits this effort at original verse. If the coloring is 
thought too lavish for some highly sensitive minds, he would say, with 
Hugh Conway, ' ' Throw the book aside ; you are too good for me, I am 
too human for you." The author has endeavored to be natural, and na- 
ture will not be hampered. To the pure in heart all things are pure. If 
any sentiment be considered too gushy for some cold natures, the au- 
thor would say, God deliver us from the icicle notions of this too, too prac- 
tical age, when marriage is becomimg unpopular, children considered a 
nuisance, and divorce honorable. 

Very respectfully T. J. PEARCE. 

St. Paul, Minn., 1886. 



PRELUDE. 



Fifteen births of genial summer from the pregnant womb of time ; 
Fifteen winters saw them buried while they yet were in their prime. 
Kings have reigned and princes flourished, empires rose and kingdoms fell, 
Men of power and fame have perished, and their number who can tell? 
Wars have ruined, famine wasted, pestilence in darkness stalked, 
Cities have been laid in ruins while the mighty earthquake rocked. 
Fires have raged on plain and forest, storms have howled along the shore; 
"While the smaller towns have crumbled 'neatli the cyclone's awful roar. 
Generals and brilliant captains wiio victorious armies led, 
All have gone to answer roll call in the bivouac of the dead. 
Men of genius, men of talent, men of culture, men of worth, 
All have fallen by the Reaper, mingled with the dust of earth. 
Hoary time has not been idle since the youthful Rolland led 
Fair young Phoebe from the altar to the sacred bridal bed. 
She a maid of twenty summers, he a youth of twenty-three,* 
Setting sail on life's great ocean in the ship called Ecstasy. 
Which they hoped would bear them over to the fairy land of Fame. 
All her fruits are golden apples ; Fortune's Goddess rules the same. 
Life to them was full of promise on that happy wedding day ; 
She was young and fair and gentle, he was strong and proud and gay. 
Gardens had been devastated to adorn their flowery way, 
Now the bridal flowers have withered, thorns have sprung up by the way. 
She looks pale and thin and tired; now his hair is turning gray. 
Would 5^ou hear the thrilling story how he prospered in the strife? 
By what path his feet have wandered up and down the hills of life? 
Why he left his father's dwelling where he was a mother's pride ? 

5 



6 ROLLAND BANE. 

How lie got his education? where he met his bonny bride? 

How a little, blue-eyed maiden with her magic song and art, 

Roused the sleeping fires of passion, threw a spell around his heart? 

What befell him on the mountain, wounded, bleeding, almost dead, 

And how faithful little Phoebe kept her vigil by his bed? 

Would you hear why Mabel WUson rushed to death by suicide ? 

Of her lover Harry Rollins? how he lived? and how he died? 

How young Rolland crossed the mountains passing thro' the haunted glen? 

As he went to win his laurels 'mid the crafty sons of men? 

How poor Phoebe's mother, dying, left an orphan all alone? 

How her uncle, aunt and cousin tore her from her cottage home? 

How through all the dreary winter she was kept in prison still? 

And her uncle tried to force her into bonds against her will ? 

How within a distant city Rolland heard her plaintive cry? 

Came across the Hazel Mountains with the lightning in his eye? 

How at last he came to rescue just before it was too late? 

Forced an entrance to her prison ; snatched her from the hand of fate? 

Listen to the plaintive story how reward to true love comes ; 

And how vice and dissipation ruin many happy homes. 



* 



Holland Bane. 



Now the car of Phoebus rested where the sun had closed his eye, 
And the dark and regal Goddess hung her lanterns m the sky. 
As a youth of twenty summers going from the parent home, 
Waited for the parting blessing of a mother on her son. 
They were standing on the threshold which his feet had often pressed, 
While the hope of independence stirred the manhood in his breast. 
Now the pale moon shone above them ; not a sound the stillness broke ; 
While he grasped the hand of mother, thus the youthful Rolland spoke : 

*' I have marked your careworn features and have heard what father said. 

True, his face is growing wrinkled struggling for our daily bread. 

By some strange reverse of fortune poverty has been your lot ; 

And your willing sacrifices they shall never be forgot. 

These green meadows, grain fields, wood-lands, in my boyhood were 

myall; 
But the time has come dear mother, when the old farm seems too small. 
Hard it seems that I should linger longer on the parent tree, 
When upon some younger orchard now this limb should grafted be. 
Should I see this world of wonders as my heart has been inclined, 
I must quit the scenes of childhood, leave the old home far behind. 
I may prosper in the struggle or my fate may be defeat. 
But I'll ne'er forget the lessons learned while sitting at your feet. 
So farewell, dear faithful mother, I must try my luck alone. 
But your burden will be lighter when you find that I am gone." 

7 



8 HOLLAND BANE. 

"Rorand " spoke the aged mother, while her eyes were filled with tears, 

''You have uttered words of wisdom far beyond your youthful years. 

In the years of patient labor I have had to raise my boys, 

None of you were thought a burden, but were all a mother's joys. 

Sad I am to see you, Rolland, wander from your parent's side ; 

You were always kind and gentle and were aye a mother's pride. 

May the lessons of hard saving learned within our humble home, 

Be of value in j'^our journey when you walk your ways alone. 

Learn to guard your reputation ; Never seek the truth to hide ; 

Shun the ways of evil doers ; let the Bible be your guide ; 

Smother each unholy passion ; study virtue's ways to know ; 

Lest the tempter wreck your manhood and your happiness o'erthrow. 

Give your business strict attention; hoard your earnings day by day; 

But your brother in misfortune help upon his weary way. 

Seek some true and loving partner all your joys and griefs to share, 

And may heaven bless you ever is your mother's earnest prayer." 

From his mother's humble dwelling while the stars were shining bright, 
Rolland took his lonely journey through the still and silent night. 

Where the sun of early spring-time sheds his warm, effulgent beams. 

Over Pennsylvania's hill tops and her cooling mountain streams ; 

Rolland halted in his journey that he might his fortune try ; 

If his purse he might replenish and his needy wants supply. 

In his school by day and night-time here he taught the youthful mind 

How to scale the hills of knowledge and each hidden path to find. 

Till his purse once lean and empty held a hundred pounds or more, 

And in place of scanty wardrobe he obtained an ample store. 

But his heart was sad and lonely though his labors had been crowned. 

And he felt a secret yearning for a love as yet unfound. 

Now the frosts of coming winter crept along the northern lea, 
And the yellow leaves and crimson hung on every shady tree. 
Nature wore the faded mantle of the melancholy days, 
As young Rolland from his window watched the sun's declining rays. 



HOLLAND BANE. 

He was musing on the changes spread before his pensive eye, 
How in nature all thiugs perish, and the young grow old and die ; 
When a voice of maiden sweetness broke upon his startled ear. 
And the strains of plaintive music flowed in accents sweet and clear. 
Chained in rapture, long he listened, while the song the maiden sung 
Thrilled the pulses of his spirit like a harp by angels strung. 
Then wdthin his chamber turning still he felt the wondrous spell, 
Steal across his lonely spirit more than ever tongue can tell. 
Burning thouglits at last he uttered which the heart could not contain : 
"I must see this magic singer; hear her sing that song again. 
Witli a voice so sweet and plaintive youth and beauty are allied ; 
And if she'll consent to love me, she shall be my chosen bride." 

Rising early in the morning Holland's dreams had passed away. 
And he soon again was busy with the duties of the day. 
Going then into the highway, what should now his vision meet 
But a friend and boon companion coming slowly up the street. 
And upon his arm supported, as his w^atchful eye descried. 
One quite fair and young and slender tripping lightly at his side. 
"Rolland, I am glad to meet you. Phoebe, this is Holland Bane; 
Holland, this is Phoebe Rollins ; names sound very much the same. 
One would think you were related; if you're not vou soon will be; 
.Stranger things than that have happened in the cottage by the sea." 

"How absurd!" spoke Phoebe Rollins, "fools will never silence keep; 
Cousin Harrj'^ now is dreaming or is talking in his sleep." 
Then a flow of crimson blushes stole across her snow white cheek, 
And her eyes betrayed emotion which her tongue refused to speak. 
Somewhere in the tones or accent of the voice the maiden bore, 
Rolland thought he heard the music that had charmed his soul before. 

"I cannot express my pleasure," Rolland found at last to say, 
"Of this moment's happy greeting of two cousins on their way. 
You are surely lucky, Harry, and my env}^ knows no end, 
That you have so fair a lady for a cousin and a friend." 



10 HOLLAND BANE. 

"On lo-morrow evening, Rollaud, would you see our ladies fair? 

Come to cousin Pliojbe's parlor; youth and beauty will be tlitn. 

All the ladies of our village are so fair in form and face, 

You must come and get acquainted; don't forget the time and \'\uv ." 

Holland willingly consented, and the more for her sweet sake, 

Who had urged her warmest welcome to the words that Harry ty.vS . 

All da}^ long the youth was thinking of the early morn's surprise. 
And the magic song was linking with the maid with light blue ey . 
And when steeped in balmy slumber in the visions of the night, 
Smiling through their long, dark lashes he beheld those orbs of ligli . 

Next day meeting his friend Harry as he careless strolled along, 
Holland spoke: "Pray tell me, Harry, if a maid of magic song 
Lives within this vale enchanted? I have heard her sweet refrain, 
And would give a thousand rubles could I hear that song again." 

"Truly," then spoke Harry Rollins, "all the girls within the town 
I have known since they were children, and for many miles around. 
But for sweet and charming voices none a moment can compare 
With the melting tones of Phoebe when she sings her plaintive air. 
More than that, I'll tell thee, Rolland, that a heart more pure and mild 
Never beat within the bosom of a sweet and sinless child. 
In the eyes of love or fire and the tones the voice impart, 
You can always have an index to a youthful maiden's heart." 

Now arrived the hour auspicious when young Rolland should repair 
To the cottage where assembled all the youths and maidens fair. 
Dressed with care and taste judicious down the street his footsteps bore, 
To the doorway of the cottage which was named the day before. 

Phoebe met her new acquaintance with a smile, and welcome grasp 
Of her liand so warm and tender made him wish 'twould ne'er unclasp. 
Then within her brilliant parlor she was careful and discreet, 
That each lady there assembled should the youthful stranger meet. 



ROLLAND BANE. 11 

Joyful passed that evening party; all were happy, all were free; 
Some beguiled the hours with music, some with brilliant repartee. 
Some at dominoes were playing; some were playing games of chance ; 
Some were strolling in the garden ; some were whirling in the dance. 
But when urged to join the music Phoebe always plead excuse; 
Saying, they should hear her later. Now her voice was out of use. 
And when late the hour was growing, two by two the guests withdrew. 
But within the spacious hallway Eolland paused to bid adieu. 

" Phoebe," spoke the youthful Rolland when withdrew the merry throng, 

" I have heard you are a singer, and remain to hear the song. 

You have charmed me with your presence, and my heart has been more 

light, 
Pardon me for my presumption if I ask too much to-night." 
"Rolland, I am tired, sleepy; I have labored all the day, 
That my guests might all be happy and enjoy to-night's soiree. 
Won't you please excuse me, Rolland? Be so kind to call again ; 
Tlien I shall with greatest pleasure sing for you my love refrain." 
"May I name the evening, Phoebe ? On to-morrow shall it be ? '* 
"Yes, if you desire it, Rolland ; you can see me after tea." 
Then her hand so warm and slender fell so lightly in his own, 
Th^t good night was said in whispers or a gentle undertone. 
And her eyes so soft and tender looked so troubled and confused, 
Rolland knew she felt repentance for the favor just refused. 

Now the shadows soft and changing gather on the eastern hills, 
And the sacred evening vespers all the air with music tills ; 
As young Rolland from his chamber when the gates of day were closed, 
Took his solitary journey to the home where love reposed. 

To engage her new admirer Phoebe had herself arrayed 
In a garment soft and fluffy with a cream and milky shade. 
And upon her heaving bosom hung a rosebud pure and white, 
And upon her slender finger shone a diamond clear and bright. 
She had just adorned the parlor and had scanned her music o'er, 



12 ROLLAND BANE. 

As lier ready ear expectant heard a rap upon the door. 
Now with footsteps light and fairy soon she set the portal wide, 
And in fraction of a moment Rolland stood by Phoebe's side. 
"Well, I see you've kept your promise. How I do admire the lass 
Who will honor each engagement like the hand upon the glass." 

"Holland, you are more than welcome," and her hand with gentle press, 
Grasped his own so warm and tender Rolland thought it a caress. 
" Won't 3'ou please bs seated, Rolland? I am at your service still ; 
Yours it is commands to utter, mine the service to fulfill." 

" No, we'll sit together, Phoebe, here's a seat will serve for two; 

I must never call you servant, but a friend forever true." 

Then they talked about the weather, and the yellow^ autumn leaves, 

And the purple shades of evening falling on the golden sheaves. 

Talked of poetry and fiction, talked of travels, talked of song ; 

Then with dominoes and authors they the happy hours prolong. 

Then the theme was pictures, paintings, singing birds and blooming 

flowers. 
Then they strolled about the garden to beguile the happy hours. 
Then the pale moon was their subject, and the twinkling stars above; 
But though all themes seemed familiar still they never talked of love. 
Then returning to the parlor heard the old cathedral chime. 
Then they started, looked astonished, spoke about the flight of time. 

Then spoke Rolland, " Hear the town clock telling me Pve stayed too long, 
Now I claim your promise, Phoebe, sing for me your plaintive song." 
"Yes, of warm affections blighted I will hasten now to sing." 
And she swept the keys before her like an airy fairy thing. 

Then her voice so soft and plaintive rose with such a gentle swell, 
One could scarce discern the accents from the ruby lips that fell. 
Then a flow of love and passion rose upon the evening air, 
Pleading for a love uncherished like a maiden's holy prayer. 
Then a heart-burst cry of anguish and a scream of wild despair 



ROLLANB BANE. 13 

Caused the very air to tremble, and the lights to wildly flare. 
Then there rose a cry of vengeance rushing madly o'er the keys, 
Like the cyclone's dreadful rumble hurling down the forest trees. 
Then the voice so faint and feeble died in melting tones away, 
Like the last, faint, feeble murmur of a brooklet on its way. 

While this wondrous song proceeded Rolland like a statue stood, 
With his senses so enraptured scarce the heart could force the blood. 
Now it seemed he lived in essence ; now it seemed that he was not , 
Had the song ne'er had an ending he had never left that spot. 
But when died the gentle echo of the song the maiden sung, 
He awaked as one from dreaming, and his silence found a tongue. 

' ' Phoebe ! sweet angelic songstress ! I have heard you sing before, 
But your song in all its sweetness now has pierced my bosom's core. 
Can you learn to love a stranger wandering in the world alone ? 
With a heart that never yielded, never maiden's love has known ? 
Heart as fresh as crystal waters of a brook that flows along ? 
Heart as yet untouched by passion till I heard your plaintive song ? 
Love was in my bosom sleeping, never knowing pain nor sighs. 
Till 1 saw your wondrous beauty and the heaven in your e3^es. 
Now the flame that you have started like a furnace in my breast, 
Burns and boils like melted lava on Mount Etna's blazing crest. 
Rushes now the seething current through my heart cords illy strung, 
Through the flood-gates of my passion pours the fiery stream along. 
Now my wild brain reels and totters like a tower about to fall ; 
Oh ! sweet Phoebe ! will you love me ? will you be my own, my all ? 

Phoebe almost swooned with wonder and she felt her heart oppressed, 
With the burning words of passion which the j'-outh had just expressed. 
Now the pink and white alternate and her bosom heaves with sighs, 
And her lip with feeling quivers while the big tear fills her eyes. 

"Rolland, you must not deceive me; I am but a simple child. 
And am artless and untutored in a world both rough and wild. 



14 ROLL AND BANE. 

Surely, you are not in earnest ! Do not trifle with my heart ! 
Have you weighed the worlds of anguish one false step might now im- 
part? 
Have you thought this matter over ? I have nothing to bestow 
On the man I give my hand to but a heart as pure as snow. 
You are youthful and impulsive. Can you future years endow ? 
If my voice should fail and languish would you love me then as now? 
Stop a moment to consider. Now your heart is all aglow. 
When my face is old and wrinkled and my hair as white as snow, 
Will your love be warm and constant ? Will you fold me to your breast ? 
Shall your bosom be mj pillow as I enter into rest ? " 

"Phcebe! I've the case decided, I can never love but one; 

If my love is unrequited I must wander forth alone. 

But your face will ever haunt me and your memory enslave, 

Rest to me will be a stranger till I sink within the grave. 

But if you will be my chosen I can love you without wealth ; 

I can love you in misfortune, both in sickness and in health. 

Should your beauty fade and perish I will love you then as now, 

And my breast shall be your pillow till the turf entombs your brow." 

Then his voice fell to a whisper and he grasped her slender hand. 

And his arm her waist encircled like a gentle velvet band ; 

And he kissed away the tear drops that had gathered on her cheek, 

And the protestations smothered which the maiden strove to speak. 

Then such words of love and passion from the lips of Holland fell 

In the willing ear of Phoibe it were now a sin to tell. 

Till her curls and maiden blushes on his bosom rest content ; 

And her arms his neck encircled as she whispered her consent. 

Need we add that they were happy when they parted for the night ? 
In the eyes of gentle Phoebe shone a calm and peaceful light. 
Not as erstwhile they had parted, but with arms that intertwine, 
And with face and lips caressing like the clinging eglantine. 
Often in her pretty parlor when no other one could hear, 



ROLLAND BANE. 15 

Phoebe to her ardent lover sang her love song sweet and clear. 
Often when the shades of ev'ning gathered on the mountain's crest, 
Rolland spoke of love unceasing folding Phcebe to his breast. 

Now was Phoebe's love repining, for had passed a week or more 
Since she parted with her lover ; saw him leave her cottage door. 
* ' Something surely must have happened since our last fond parting kiss. 
He would never leave me lonely ; something grave must be amiss. 
What delays his coming footsteps ? Dreams I've had of ill import ; 
And a sad and restless feeling takes possession of my heart." 

Then her mother spoke reproving, "Phcebe, I have always said. 

Lovers are the most devoted where they least expect to wed. 

All they seek is cruel conquest, and, when hearts are made to yield. 

They forsake the broken fortress and besiege another field. 

They are like the crafty serpent coiled beneath the fairest flower. 

Till the butterfly or hum-bird falls within its deadly power. 

They are like the lazy drone bee suckiBg sweets from every cup, 

But too lazy and too worthless to sustain or fill it up. 

Rolland came a perfect stranger laying siege to your young heart, 

And if you too soon sarrendered, you must now endure the smart. 

With some other foolish lambkin nursling of its mother sheep, 

He no doubt has found fresh pasture, just as welcome, just as cheap. 

I would sound a tocsin warning to the young and fair in face, 

Never trust a roving lover with no fixed abiding place. 

Maiden's matrons all should warn them that the love bee wears a sting. 

And should see him safely anchored to his mother's apron string. 

Lest from sleep they sudden waken, find that passion has been blind ; 

Find the honey has been taken but the sting is left behind. 

Lest from dreaming they awaken, find the ancient adage true, 

That if one from one be taken, the subtraction makes them two." 

Then spoke Phoebe, still beseeching, "Mother, I will ne'er believe 
That my fond and noble lover could my trusting heart deceive. 
Both in word and deed and action I have ever found him pure ; 



16 HOLLAND BANE. 

By his si'de in light or darkness I can trust myself secure. 
I can never think liim truant ; honor, virtue, hold him fast ; 
I can trust his tirm devotion, Rolland will return at last. 
Lest some sudden, sad misfortune has o'erta'en him by the way. 
Oh! my aching heart is lonely! Wait with me another day." 

Then her old maid Aunt Maria, tauntingly the girl addressed : 
"You've a very high opinion of that cow boy from the west. 
I will warrant him a sharper, one who knows when girls are green. 
You had best be cautious, Phoebe, and let not your feet be seen. 
He's a young and ga}^ Lothario, fond of sporting, I've been told, 
He will buy you, he will sell you, if you're not already sold." 

Phoebe's eyes flashed sparks of fire when she heard the cruel taunt, 
And the rasping, sharp and cutting, from her spindly, old maid aumt. 
"None are ever so suspicious," spoke the maid with curling lip, 
"As the old and dried up herrings, who themselves have made a slip. 
None are ever half so ready to impose their good advice, 
As the old and sour pickles, who in youth were not so nice. 
Lives of old maids all remind us beauty's sun will soon decline, 
And departing leave behind it sad regrets and hearts that pine." 

Now before the little cottage stopped a charger pure and white. 

And the doctor of the village hastened quickly to alight. 

"Lives there here a little maiden, Phoebe Rollins? Just the same. 

I do bear a hasty message from her lover, Rolland Bane. 

Rolland met with a misfortune. But I thought you surely knew. 

How in climbing up the mountain, where the wild flowers richly grew, 

That he might secure some blossoms of a kind both rich and rare. 

To perfume his lady's parlor, and adorn her silken hair; 

One frail brarnch on which he rested, bending like a silver bow. 

Snapped, and in a fatal moment, dropped him on the rocks below." 

Phoebe then grew pale and sightless, fearing now the worst of harms, 
And without a moment's warning, swooned within the doctor's arms. 



ROLLANI) BANE. 17 

But the doctor, ever ready, knew what potion to apply, 
When the heart forgets its duty and the light forsakes the eye. 
So without much great commotion Phoebe came to life again, 
But she wept in bitter anguish for her lover, Rolland Bane. 

Then the doctor spoke more firmly: "I was just about to say, 

You should not be quite so hasty to despair and faint away. 

Hear the balance of the message and it surely pleasure gives, 

Rolland was not killed in falling, but your lover, Phoebe, lives. 

Soon his bleeding form was noticed by some hunters with their hounds, 

Who then brought him to the village, where I dressed his bleeding 

wounds. 
But the fall had so unmanned him and concussed his ready brain. 
That the chain of thought was broken and his reason fled amain. 
Then he raved for Phoebe Rollins, calling loudly on your name, 
But I feared to have you present till his reason came again. 
Now my patient's convalescent and the danger point is passed ; 
So we both agreed together, I should bring you word at last." 

*' Haste! oh! hasten, to my lover! Bear me quickly to his side! 
Why have you delayed my coming ?" thus the frantic maiden cried. 
'' I must bathe his aching temples! I must cheer his heart so low! 
I must change his bloody pillow for a couch as white as snow ! 
Now let go the milk white charger ! every moment you delay, 
Seems to me an hour of anguish; every minute seems a day!" 

Now the carriage sweeps the highway like the tempest sweeps the main, 
Till before a stately mansion the physician drew the rein. 
Leaping from the smoking carriage like the lark that hails the morn. 
Or the roe upon the mountain when she hears the hunter's horn, 
Phoebe o'er the threshold bounded like the tameless, wild gazelle. 
Till she reached her lover's bedside and upon his bosom fell. 

"Rolland! oh, my poor, dear Rolland! How my heart has yearned 

for you ! 
Well I knew my plighted lover to my heart was not untrue I 



18 ROLLANB BANE. 

I have had the worst forebodings, and my heart has had no rest, 
8ince I dreamed I saw you standing on the distant mountain's crest ; 
And a purple fountain springing from the rock on which you stood, 
Seemed to flow in crimson streamlets, and to bathe the mount in blood. 
How my lover must have suffered! oh what ages seems have passed 
Since I felt your arms enfold me, and the kiss you gave me last ! 
How the poiuted rocks have hurt you ! show me every bleeding wound ! 
I shall bathe them with my kisses and with silk they shall be bound ! 
Oh! How sad it seems, dear Rolland, that for me you climbed the hill, 
And the cruel sliver breaking, your warm youthful blood should spill. 
Had you died upon the mountain ; Had we never met again. 
Then my heart had burst with sorrow, or my mind become insane." 

Now the doctor who had waited just outside the chamber door, 
Fearing for his patient's safety walked across the velvet floor. 
"You must calm yourself, my lady, and from off his breast remove; 
And consider such caresses will not much his case improve. 
Lower the flood gates of your pity and be seated in this chair; 
Rolland is both weak and feeble, and must have a little air.'* 
Then the little maid was seated but refused to leave his side, 
While the doctor gave directions how his wants should be supplied. 

Need we tell how true and faithful Phoebe nursed the wounded boy? 
How to cheer him, soothe and comfort, every art she did employ ? 
And what Rolland thought a trouble, Phoebe thought her sweetest joy? 
How she oft would change his pillow and support his aching head, 
And would bring the pure white linen to refresh his weary bed ? 
How she gathered from her garden all the sweetest flowers that bloom. 
With the rose and pink and pansy to adorn her lover's room ? 
How she read and laughed and chatted that the time might not seem long 
And would often in the twilight sing for him her plaintive song ? 
When the shades of night had fallen, and his eyes were closed in sleep, 
Close beside her lover's pillow Phoebe would her vigil keep. 
Thus she nursed her wounded lover, never leaving day or night, 
Till his cheek resumed its color and his eye its wonted light. 



HOLLAND BANE. 19 

Then the doctor stopped his visits, bidding Holland roam at large ; 
Saying he could trust his patient in the gentle maiden's charge. 

After Phoebe nursed her lover back to health and strength again, 
Oft they roved at evening twilight down the long and mossy lane. 
Oh! those halcyon summer evenings when fond lovers take their walk, 
When the theme is love and passion, such as ardent lovers talk. 
Nature wears her fairest mantle, and the moon-lit, starry skies 
Never seem so pure and holy as when seen through lovers' eyes. 

"I have just been thinking, Phoebe, where Til get my two edged sword 

For the foe we must encounter in the region unexplored. 

Wliere Pll get my ammunition for the conflict yet to be, 

That I might carve out a fortune, win a home for you and me. 

Now it seems that a physician's life I very much admire, 

Though my quick imagination fills me with poetic fire. 

I would be a poet, Phoebe, but among the needy poor 

I should find myself a vagrant, begging bread from door to door. 

For the love I bear you, Phoebe, for your watch beside my bed, 

I must never see you hunger, never hear you cry for bread. 

Now my little, blue eyed maiden, which profession shall I choose? 

Shall I fight the King of terrors, or invoke the heavenly muse?" 

"Now my lover, almost husband, why should you your Phoebe ask? 
To decide so grave a question, sure is not an easy task. 
I would have you use your pleasure, follow up your bent of mind ; 
And the life profession follow to which you are most inclined. 
Girls, you know, are not good judges of a young man's mind or skill 
Save where love is his profession, then our judgment serves the will. 
We are ruled by love and passion, and we scarcely care to know 
What our lover husbands follow, while for us their passions flow. 
We are like the fond bird mother, sitting o'er her tender brood, 
Trusting to the stronger male bird to provide a nest and food." 

"Well, since you will not assist me, Pll decide the case myself; 
My poetic aspirations I will lay upon the shelf ; 



20 HOLLAND BANE. 

Aud my Medlcinm Rehus I will learn to quote by rule, 

And will seek my Diplo7nate in an Alopathic school. 

So I'll tell my noisy pupils I've resolved to teach no more, 

And with sine die echo we will slam the college door ; 

And we'll celebrate commencement with a Bacchanalian roar. 

And in Dr. Wilson's office I will study well the plan, 

How the race is propagated, and the boy becomes the man. 

How disease and dissipation and the clogging of his gall. 

Make him wish that he was buried, or had ne'er been born at all. 

How to write a latin Recip for a bottle of — old rye ; 

Why an ounce of Aquafiuminis should come so very high. 

I will drag the grinning Skeleton from out its narrow cell, 

And will make its dry bones rattle till a story it shall tell. 

Through the Orbital Foramen I will point my telescope, 

And will ' round up ' all his vices like a cow boy with his rope. 

I will number all the Vertebrm that run along the spine, 

To see how hard he struck his base while playing with * the nine.* 

His Hadius and Humerus I will give a sudden twirl, 

To see if they were out of place when waltzing with his girl. 

I'll draw a line from 8ter7ium front to Dorsum in the rear, 

To see how his anatomy could hold a keg of beer. 

From Occiput to Frontal Bone I will draw a chalky mark. 

To see if he his balance kept while out upon a lark. 

The Frontal Sinus I'll explore by incandescent light, 

To see how safe he got to bed when comins; in at nio-ht. 

I'll run my twelve inch ruler then along his Planter ArcTi, 

To see what size of shoe he wore when out upon a march." 

Then Phoebe sighed and cried aloud, "Pray hold, dear Rolland, hold! 

Such words do cause my flesh to creep and make my blood run cold. 

A sweeter topic let us choose. The crescent over head 

Has passed the great meridian when maids should be in bed. 

Your skeletonian imagery lock up within their cells. 

And point your mental telescope to where Pelides dwells ; 

And draw a line from horizon to yon pale orb of light, 



ROLLAND BANE. 21 

And count how many hours have dropped from out the dewy night. 
I think we'll not return again to where we were before, 
If you will see me safely home to my own cottage door." 

"A thousand pardons, Phoebe dear, I did not note the time, 
My theme was coming like the wind and rimning into rhyme." 
With hasty steps they now return imto the door she left, 
When Phoebe thought her lover lost and felt her heart bereft. 

*'Now Rolland, I have lost you once, so now before we part, 

You'll promise not to risk you life nor break your Phoebe's heart. 

Please call and see me every day, I'll wait you with delight. 

So now-good night-and pleasant dreams-good night-my love-goodnight." 

Now Holland sought to store his mind with TJierapeutic lore, 

And found the Gray's Anatomy a good deal of a bore. 

For Surgery and Chemistry he found his brain was thick ; 

While Physics caused his head to swim and Practice made him sick. 

When Gynecology \\e read, he cried, "oh! woman frail!" 

But when he read Venereal he felt his courage fail. 

In Jurisprudence then he read how justice oft is foiled. 

And round the neck of innocence the rope of crime is coiled. 

He saw now in Obstetric books how this vile race holds out. 

When Physiology he read, it sowed the seeds of doubt. 

At last he cried in sheer despair, "I surely cannot see, 
If men are born the sons of God and women angels be, 
How they could ever fall so low in immorality. 
Now what these works of science tell of nature's laws and ways. 
Is not the way my mother taught nor what the Bible savs. 
My mother's precepts I respect and what she taught to me ; 
But if what mother taught be true, then how can such things be? 
The sacred Book I always thought was truth from end to end ; 
But if what here I read be false then truth was never penned. 
I fain would think the Bible true ; but how can I believe 
That He that born of woman was did Godlike power receive ? 
I now regret the day I did these studies all begin ; 



32 HOLLAND BANE. 

And yet to know wliat's to be known is not a mortal sin. 

If God in distant ages past did mortal men endow 

To walk the seas and raise the dead, why don't He do so now? 

Does God take notice of the earth ? Are mortal men His choice ? 

Then why for eighteen hundred years have they not heard His voice ? 

They tell us miracles are past since God his Son did raise ; 

But are we not as skeptical as they of ancient days ? 

And do we not need, just as much His all-convincing rays? 

To me there seems no miracle about the race of man ; 

But like the rest of animals he follows nature's plan. 

Except a male by nature's laws is with a female joined, 

They never can produce a life or being of their kind. 

From Eden's bowers we see him not his Godlike entrance make, 

But from between his mother's knees his parents' image take. 

We see him bom, subsist and die as other creatures die, 

But never see his mortal form immortal in the sky. 

A few 'tis true, have wondrous minds and genius rare and fine, 

But they must perish like the rest, and unto death resign. 

Full many great, and great their works, but who of royal line 

Has built an arch or pedestal to stand the wreck of time? 

From nature's laws he's not exempt in age or infancy ; 

Then why should mortal man lay claim to immortality? 

Who thinks that he immortal is, then let him roll a ball 

Whose impetus shall ne'er abate till thrones and empires fall. 

Or let him build a new machine whose wheels and cogs shall fly, 

And laugh the elements to scorn, and nature's laws defy. 

If faith and prayer can raise the dead and cause disease to end. 

From nature's laws immutable one little law suspend; 

Then I'll believe from Mary's womb a God immortal came, 

And o'er the plains of Bethlehem the angels hailed his name; 

And from the silence of the tomb where Christ a victim lay. 

He hurled the King of terrors back and tore the keys awa3\" 

With Dr. Wilson two long years young Rolland went and came. 
Till people in the village called him Dr. Rolland Bane. 



HOLLAND BANE. 23 

But while lie learned to heal the sick and on the wounded tend, 
He found with Pha^be every day a pleasant hour to spend. 

While Rolland in reflective mood sat near the open door, 

With feet upon the dusty desk and eyes upon the floor, 

Two little hands as if in play were clapped across his eyes. 

And two soft arms about his neck quite stunned him with surprise. 

"I know your tricks, my little girl, now give me back my sight; 
I'd know my Phoebe's soft white hands in darkness or in light." 

Before the girl had time to scream or hands and arms unlace. 
Her shoulders felt his manly arms, her breast his strong embrace. 
''Now twenty kisses is the fine and one embrace the prize. 
When maidens make a foul assault and shut a young man's eyes.'* 

"Now-Rolland-I-protest-you-shant-I've-half-a mind-to scream- 
Or-pull-your-ears-you-naughty-boy-where-was-you-yester e'en? 
Your horses passed my door at eve like eagles in their flight; 
I saw the parlor lamp burn low, the moon go out of sight ; 
But vain I waited your return to kiss your love good night." 

' ' My sweet impulsive little maid must not complain at fate, 

But patiently sit by my side while I a tale relate. 

Should all this rushing mountain stream our aching hearts divide, 

Not all its rocks or waters wild should keep me from your side. 

But first, before my tale begins, pray tell me, have you seen 

Your cousin Harry walk of late upon the village green ?" 

She started as she heard his name and scarce suppressed a moan. 

"Why no! dear Rolland! but of late my cousin's moody grown; 

And yesterday his mother said he'd left for parts unknown." 

"You know the narrow mountain pass and bridge across the glen? 
'Twas once the home of bandit knights and haunt of armed men ; 
We've often passed it there at night when coming down the hill, 



24 ROLLAND BANE. 

And seen the firefly's flitting light and heard the whippoorwill. 
'Twas there as Dr. Wilson came when yet the sun was high, 
He saw a maid leap o'er the bridge and heard a piercing cry. 

Dismounting then, he tied his horse, and down the rocky way 
With careful footsteps he descends where she unconscious lay. 
He felt her pulse, he raised her head and viewed the lifeless eye, 
And heaved a sigh of deep regret that one so fair should die. 
Then quick returning to the steed he wrote a little note, 
And tied it with a silken thread close to the horse's throat. 
Then tying up the bridal rein one whistle long he blew, 
»' And down the road like one pursued the milk white charger flew. 

"Just as I laid aside my books and writings for the. day, 

I heard the sound of Snow Drop's hoofs ; I heard his piercing neigh 

I scarce had time to turn around and walk across the floor. 

When bounding up with foaming flanks he stood before the door. 

With panting sides and head erect and eyes of burning flame. 

And nostrils streaming like the wind all riderless he came. 

I snatched the little snow white card from off the smoking throat. 

And in a moment read the words which Dr. Wilson wrote : 

'A carriage quick. A lady fair in Brady's glen has died.' 

An accident or suicide was all the note implied. 

"With headlong haste two spanking bays were to the pole made fast. 
While faithful Snow Drop now was left beneath the shade to rest. 
I drew the rein and cracked the lash and left the town behind. 
While up the hill the geldings flew like chafl: before the wind. 

"I gained the pass and heard the sound of voices far below, 

And heard the mountain torrent rush unceasing in its flow. 

'Hello I ' at last a voice came up, 'Can that be Holland Bane?' 

And from the rocky mountain sides the echo cried again. 

I shouted then 'way down the glen, Ay! ay! my faithful friend. 

Your charger came with eyes of flame and brought the note you penned; 



ROLLANB BANE. 35 

And now the prancing geldings stand within the narrow road, 
And at their heels your carriage wheels await their precious load. ^ 

' 'Just tie the geldings to a tree and hold a torch of light, 
Till we can scale the mossy rocks, and glen's uncertain higbt.' 
A torch was brought, and up the path with slow and solemn tread. 
They bore a maiden's slender form ; the fair but silent dead. 
In ringlets fell her flaxen hair, and on her snow white hand 
A diamond bright blazed in the light and then a golden band. 
As in the coach they laid her form, the torch's light revealed 
Beneath her throat a little note securely pinned and sealed. 

"The doctor tenderly unpinned the note from off the dead, 
And broke the little crimson seal, and this is what it said ; 
*If any one should find my corpse when cold in death I lie, 
This note will tell him who I am and why I chose to die. 
My name has always Mabel been ; my home is Eidlewild ; 
My uncle, Dr. Wilson is; I am his brother's child ; 
I loved not wisely but too well, and now am lowly laid ; 
My lover Harr}^ Rollins was; by him was I betrayed.'" 

"What! Harry Rollins! " Phoebe cried, and shrank within her chair; 
While up her little hands she threw and clasped her raven hair. 
"Oh! Rolland! Rolland! " then she wept, "what news is this I hear 
Of cousin Harry whom I thought so noble, true and pure ? 
How could he win dear Mabel's love, and in an evil hour 
Seduce her pure and trusting heart, her maidenhood deflour; 
And then forsake her in her shame and from her face to fly, 
And leave the gentle littk soul the scorn of every eye ? 

* ' Oh ! cursed lust ! unfaithful love ! How could the robber take 
The brightest jewel from her breast and then that breast forsake? 
How could he thus tli-e honey bee its store of sweets deprive, 
And then the little insect leave to perish in the hive ? 
Infectious breeze ! remorseless blast ! that clouds the fairest morn ; 



26 ROLLANB BANE. 

Til}' curse shall make my sisters weep to ages yet unborn. 

No wonder that her sweet blue eyes shrank from the light of day, 

When all the shame of future years before her vision lay. 

"No wonder that her reason fled and sunk her pure young mind. 
Where could she rest her aching head? A friend where could she find? 
Oh ! how my heart for Mabel bleeds ! I see her little feet 
Fly up the rock}^ mountain path, in haste her fate to meet. 
Her frantic eyeballs wildly stare ; her hair floats to the breeze ; 
She hears the cooling mountain air moan through the forest trees. 
She sees a thousand demon eyes and feels their poison breath ; 
Across the narrow bridge she flies and leaps to bloody death." 

Awhile they now in silence sat, while sobs from Phoebe came ; 
She wept the maid's untimely death; her erring sister's shame. 
At last spoke Holland, "Phoebe dear, your tears cannot atone 
For other's faults ; but would you hear how we took Mabel home?" 
"Oh, Holland, yes; your love excuse; I could not help bewail 
Poor Mabel's death ; but did not mean to interrupt your tale." 

"As echoed from the doctor's lips his whistle far and wide, 

A woodsman in the upper glen in thrilling notes replied. 

The doctor called and soon there came a man with roughened hands ; 

The sinews in his brawny arms were strong as iron bands. 

'Twas he who now with sunburned brow before the carriage stood. 

And heard the doctor read the note, and saw her wasted blood. 

Then spoke the woodsman; 'Well I know your friend in Eidlewild; 

Pve often played with Mabel here, and nursed her when a child. 

If you can trust me now,' he said, 'Pll be your faithful guide ; 

The road is rough, the night is dark, and fifteen miles to ride.' 

Then spoke the doctor, ' You shall drive, and I'll reward your pains, 

So please be seated on the box and take the geldings' reins. 

And Holland at her feet will sit and I'll support her head. 

And all the long and dismal way we'll watch the silent dead.* 



ROLLANB BANE. 2T 

So on we went o'er Mil and dale through regions never mild, 
And, as the clock was striking twelve arrived in Eidlewild. 

*' 'Hello! Is Major Wilson in?' our brawny woodsman cried; 
And through the night we saw a light, and then a voice replied : 
'Yes, I am he; but who is thee? Can that be Captain Wild?' 
'Yes, I'm the woodsman rough and old, and here's your only child.' 

" 'My God! ' quoth Major Wilson then, 'You do not tell me, now, 
That you have found my only child upon the mountain's brow ! 
She left us full three days ago, and we did fear her mind 
Had come deranged. We sought her far, but failed the child to find.' 

" ' Come, Joseph, I'm your brother James, and this is Holland Bane. 
But she that once your household blessed can ne'er return again. 
Her lifeless body we did find within the narrow glen. 
And many miles we've come to-night to fetch her home again.' 

"I had dismounted from the coach and stood by Joseph's side. 
Just as his brother spoke the words which told why Mabel died. 

" 'What! Mabel dead! My only child! It can not, must not be. 
That she who was my hope and joy can ne'er come back to me! ' 
Then running quickly to her side he clasped her icy frame, 
And wrung her hands in wild despair and called upon her name. 
'Oh! Mabel! Mabel! lovely child! Why didst thou leave my side? 
If thou liadst told me all thy heart my child need not have died ! 
Thou wert my joy, my life, my ail, my birdling and my care; 
What strange enchantment made thee fall within the tempter's snare ? 
Come back again to these fond arms! Come, never more to roam! 
Though aU the world should call thee foul, my bosom's still thy home ! 
Come ! Let me press thee to my heart 1 and lay thy face in mine ; 
And let me feel thy soft white arms about my neck entwine! 
Speak once again! Oh, Mabel, speak! And let me hear the voice 
That caused my very frame to thrill, my lone heart to rejoice. 



28 ' HOLLAND BANE. 

Come ! Kiss me once again, my child ! and let me feel tliy breath ; 
And let thy loving smile refute the icy hand of death ! 
Come ! Press thy ruby lips to mine ! and let me feel their glow ! 
And let me see those soft blue eyes, and neck as white as snow! ' 

"In vain, in vain, his hopeless cries fall noiseless on her ear. 

In vain he calls upon her name ; the dead can never hear. 

In vain he wrings her icy hands and beats his aching breast ; 

In vain his groans ascend the skies ; her spirit is at rest. 

He now let fall the icy hands and from the corpse turned round ; 

He tore his hair in wild despair and in the dust sat down. 

' ' Just as her father sank to earth we heard a piercing cry, 

Like screaming of a battle shell across the midnight sky. 

Her mother from her chamber door came rushing through the night, 

"With feet unshod, with hair unkempt, and gown of purest white. 

"With eyeballs starting from her head she like a statue stood. 

Then fell across her lifeless child, but uttered not a word. 

' ' Her almost lifeless form we now upraised from off the dead, 
And back we bore her through the door and laid her on her bed. 
"While doctor "Wilson left the corpse unto the woodsman's care, 
To wait upon a broken heart and mother lying there. 
]Ie then arranged a low white couch and pillow for her head, 
And bade me join the woodsman strong and carry in the dead. 
Upon the couch we laid her form beneath a snow white screen, 
And then the father took his seat his wife and child between. 
And all the night by half turned light we watched beside the dead. 
While Dr. "Wilson kept his watch beside the mother's bed. 

""When morning dawned the doctor said, 'the baj's brhig to the pole. 
And quickly make my carriage wheels across the mountain roll. 
When you reach the Wilson mansion by the glassy riverside. 
Spread abroad the mournful story, tell how Mabel Wilson died. 
Tell my wife and daughter Gracy they shall come by my request, 



HOLLAND BANE. 29 

And of all the blooming flowers bring the sweetest and the best. 
Tell your sweetheart, Phoebe Rollins, not to fail to come along; 
We must have her magic presence and must hear her plaintive song.' 

*'To the pole the steeds were fastened and like arrows I did ride. 
Shooting through the hazel bushes, flying down the mountain side. 
When the sun blazed high in heaven and the hour of noon was passed, 
I had gained the Crystal River, to the mansion came at last. 

"Now you know why past your cottage rushed the geldings in their 

flight. 
And the reason why your lover failed to kiss his love good night. 
But I'm feeling hungry, Phoebe, and must further talk forego ; 
So if you will now excuse me, I will to my supper go. 
After supper I shall see you and while sitting by your side. 
We can make complete arrangements for to-morrow morning's ride." 

"No, indeed! Pll not excuse you! you shall come right home with me. 

We've prepared a special supper and expect you there at tea. 

No excuses! Pll not listen ! It is useless to protest! 

You're my captive ! I'm your captor ! In my prison you shall rest ! 

Do you think I'd see you, Rolland, now exhausted as you are, 

Stopping at that noisy tavern with its horrid liquor bar ? 

No you shan't ! I'm much the stronger ! Know what's best for 3'ou ? of 

course! 
If you'll not at once surrender, I will take you home by force ! " 

"All right, Phcebe! Pll go with jow ! and enjoy your pleasant rooms; 
For I'm sure a fairer captor never led me to the tombs." 
After he had supped and eaten, which he did with much delight, 
Phoebe gave a clean spare bed room where he rested for the night. 
That their rest was blessed with slumber and with pleasant dreams 

throughout, 
They who saw their happy faces in the morning could not doubt. 



30 HOLLAND BANE. 

Then spoke Rolland after breakfast, "We must go to Eidlewild, 
AMtli the doctor's wife and Gracy, Dr. Wilson's eldest child. 
I will call for you, dear Phoebe, and as you prepare to go. 
Gather from your summer garden all the fairest flowers that blow. 
Bring the rose and calla lily and the clinging eglantine, 
With the holljdiock and pansy and the fragrant jessamine. 
Bring the hyacinth and daisy and immortelles white and clear. 
With the pink and sweet carnation, to adorn poor Mabel's bier." 

Now the sunlight warm and mellow clothes with gold the eastern hills, 
And the white clouds soft and fleecy all the upper ether fills. 
While the dew-drops on the flowers sparkle like a sea of rings. 
And the lark from out the meadow floats to heaven while it sings. 
In her dress of creamy satin Phoebe robed herself that day, 
Just the same she wore that evening when she gave her heart away. 
On her breast she wore a tuberose and carnation pure and white. 
And upon her slender finger blazed her diamond clear and bright. 

Soon the carriage bright and shining stopped before the cottage door ; 
In the back seat sat the ladies and young Rolland sat before. 
While the doctor's faithful driver held the horses by the reins, 
Champing like a brace of mustangs on the fertile Texan plains. 
"Phoebe dear, a happy greeting," now both ladies spoke at once, 
While upon the marble pavement Holland's nimble feet did bounce. 
In the carriage now he raised her and before Miss Wilson placed, 
While he took a seat beside her and the elder lady faced. 
While a large boquet of flowers each fair lady there did hold, 
Rolland on his knee before him held a case of leather mold. 

"Now then, Charley, blow your whistle," Rolland spoke to Charley Pride ; 
"We must cross the hills of hazel and have iwenty miles to ride." 
Charley cracked his lash of buckskin and a whistle shrilly blew, 
While along the Allegheny now the geldings fairly flew. 
Blazed their eyes like balls of fire and their nostrils wide extend. 
As through passes old and hoary up the mountain they ascend. 



nOLLANB BANE. 31 

Then o'er plains of linzel bushes and through vallej^s stretching wide^ 
Bearing down the road before them like a tempest they did ride. 
As they swept on tlirough the forest, shook the limbs upon tlie trees, 
And the fiery geldings prancing snuffed the fresh and dewy breeze. 
Now the sound of tolling church bells o'er the hills of clover steal, 
And they saw the roads converging like the spokes within a wheel. 
Wagons, buggies, foot and horsemen, all were bound for Eidlewild ; 
They had heard the mournful story how the major lost his child. 

Down the broad and winding roadway, on their horses still proceed. 
Till before the village church door Charley checked their fiery speed. 
Many hundreds filled the temple, and about the open door 
Gathered people of all ages ; full a hundred souls or more. 
Now they see the long procession moving up with solemn tread, 
To the church where all assembled, waited the lamented dead. 
Rolland, standing by the carriage while the pall Tvas passing near, 
Laid the flowers fresh and fragrant on the lid of Mabel's bier. 

At the altar now they placed her, and the people gathered in, 

While the minister expounded all the gilded w^ays of sin. 

Then he spoke about poor Mabel ; of her beauty and her fall ; 

And the gay and wily tempters wdio the innocent enthrall ; 

Urging all the gentle maidens to remember Mabel's fate ; 

Calling young men to repentance lest repentance come too late. 

Telling mothers guard their daughters ; w^arn them from the ways of vice ; 

Warning fathers sons to govern, who fair maidens may entice. 

Then they sang of sins forgiven ; sang of Mary Magdalen ; 

Sang of Jesus' love for sinners, till the echo rang again. 

While the pastor prayed for comfort, prayed to heal the broken heart, 

Every head was bowed in silence ; many tears unbidden start. 

Then the form of Dr. Wilson rose among the mourning throng 
Saying, "We will now hear Phoebe sing for us her plaintive song. 
Somewhere in this vast assemblage stays a little maiden hid, 
I've engaged to sing a solo ere we close the cofiin lid," 



B2 HOLLAND BANE. 

Then did Rolland bring the music from its case of leather mold, 

And appeared the form of Phoebe fair and charming to behold. 

True, her eyes were red with weeping, but she walked with nimble feet ; 

And 'twas said by those who saw her that she never looked so sweet. 

Now the sweet tones of the organ rose with soft and gentle swell, 
As the bird notes, half angelic, from the lips of Phoebe fell. 
While she sang the gentle prelude, like the warning sound of death. 
All the church was hushed to silence, all the people held their breath. 
Then she drew that vast assemblage by lier wondrous minstrelsy. 
As the sun above the waters draws the mists from out the sea. 
Maidens leaned upon their lovers ; stricken hearts were made to bleed ; 
Strong men wept like little children as the magic words proceed. 
Now a mother clasps her daughter, holds her firmly to her breast ; 
While the father, moved with pity, both the wife and daughter pressed. 
Lovers stood entranced with rapture and confessed the wondrous spell, 
While their youthful hearts were smitten more than ever tongue can telL 
Then as rose the cry for vengeance like the red man's battle cry, 
Fathers leaped upon the benches, raised their clenched fists on high. 
Then their shout of pent up anger shook the very earth beneath ; 
Caused the temple walls to tremble till the singer held he?" breath. 
Mothers screamed and daughters fainted ; shook the ceiling overhead ; 
Till the pastor loudly calling, said their naise would wake the dead. 
Then amid the great commotion Phoebe closed her magic song, 
Like the murmur of a brooklet as it sweetly flows along. 
When they caught the gentle murmur, passion ceased to swell their breast 
And returning to their places, settled like the waves to rest. 

Then the undertaker speaking, said the face would be exposed 
That the people all might view it, ere the coffin lid be closed. 
Then a column slowly forming passed along by twos and threes ; 
Viewed the sweet face of poor Mabel, some few bowing on their knees. 
And a bank of fragrant flowers from a hundred hands or more, 
Rose above the pure white casket till they rolled upon the floor. 
Then they buried Mabel Wilson in a little grave hard by, 



ROLLAND BANE. 33 

And upon the clods above lier piled the flowers mountain high. 

As the preacher asked a blessing on the grief the spirit gave, 

All the people home returning, dropped a tear on Mabel's grave. 

Now beneath the lofty oak trees, near the church in Eidlewild, 

Lies the dust of gentle Mabel, Major Wilson's only child. 

And the night winds moan and murmur through the branches overhead. 

Singing dirges for the dying, sighing requiems for the dead. 

Then they went with Major Wilson where they stopped an hour for tea. 

That they might his lady comfort and poor Mabel's treasures see. 

"Joseph," then spoke Dr. Wilson, " I must make my homC to-night, 

Though the night be dark and cloudy and the stars are out of sight. 

I must leave my stricken sister in the care of Dr. Hale, 

While with all my friends and family I return to Riverdale." 

Thus then spoke the brawny woodsman, ' ' Much I fear your homeward ride; 
You had better take me with you ; I will sit with Charley Pride. 
Signs I've seen this day and evening of a fearful coming storm ; 
Little whirlwinds like to corkscrews chased each other o'er the farm. 
Pigs have hastened home to cover bearing straw within their mouth ; 
Birds with wings and pinions drooping, frightened, hasten from the south. 
Now there come close to our dwelling, squirrels, birds of every sort; 
Dogs are in their kennels howling and the spider's web is short." 

"Think you," then said Dr. Wilson, "you can brave the coming blast? 
Do the storms and forked lightnings raise no terrors in your breast ? " 

« 

"Storms and tempests", spoke the woodsman, " are my kindred 'mong 

the rocks ; 
Pve been raised to brave the thunder and endure the lightning's shocks. 
When the war cloud rolled and thundered, I 'gainst General Hooker stood 
On the crest of Lookout Mountain, while the summit streamed with blood. 
I was in the siege of Vicksburg, when the fearful hissing shell 
Rolled across the doomed city, like the fiery car of hell. 
In the Wilderness I battled, with the great immortal Lee, 
And we faced the hordes of Sherman as they swept on to the sea. 



34 HOLLAND BANE. 

Wars and tempests were my fellows ; dangers have my brothers been ; 
Think you then I'll fear and tremble when the thunder cloud is seen ?" 

*'Mount the box," then cried the doctor. ' 'Charley Pride, give up the reins ; 
Captain Wild will guide the geldings as they thunder o'er the plains." 
With the heavy carriage groaning they brought forth their waterproofs, 
While the dust in angry circles flew beneath the horses' hoofs. 
Angry growled the distant thunder ; damp and chilly came the breeze ; 
While the wind, like wolves in winter, howled among the forest trees. 
Now from out the distant southwest sounds came rumbling sounds upon . 
Like two armies joined in battle or an earthquake marching on. 
As they crossed the hills of clover they could catch the fearful roar, 
And could see the black clouds rolling like the waves along the shore. 
Now a livid streak of lightning through the inky cloud appears, 
And a heavy crash of thunder broke upon their startled ears. 
Floating shadows, trees and fences, seemed behind their coach to fly; 
While the brave and fearless woodsman faced the storm cloud in the sky. 

They could hear the geldings panting and their iron shoes resound, 

As they scaled the hills of hazel and their quick feet spurned the ground. 

Now a forked flash of lightning on the mountain breaks to view. 

And the thunder crash that follows seems to split the mount in two. 

Breaks the storm in all its fury ; fierce the blast howls overhead ; 

And the trumpets in the heavens now are calling up the dead. 

"Now then, doctor," cried the captain, ''we have reached the hanging 

rock ; 
Here we're sheltered from the tempest, and can brave the lightning's 

shock. 
Here I've lived for five long summers ; here my rocky cave is found ; 
Should I fear the storms or lightning when my home's beneath the ground ?" 

Quiokly now the}^ all dismounted, sought protection in the cave ; 
While the captain to the geldings now this stern commandment gave : 
"Down here. Dexter! Down here, Vulcan!" and across their knees he 

struck ; 
While the horses, trembling, fearing, crouched beneath the hanging rock 



HOLLAND BANE. 35 

" Now then," said the fearless captain, '* would you see a sight sublime ; 
Like the world to chaos turning, or the doom of future time ? 
Stand within my rocky hallway ; see what night and darkness sends ; 
See old Nature rend the mountain while the storm its inrj spends." 

Sach a storm as shakes the mountain ; lightnings which the scene illume ; 
Ne'er again shall wake its echoes till they hear the crack of doom. 
See that flash of livid lightning, darting like a serpent's tongue ! 
From the inky clouds above them sinks it straight the oaks among ! 
Oh ! that fearful crash of thunder ! Trembles all the earth below ! 
And another sheet of liglitning makes the heavens all aglow ! 
Now a. blazing ball of fire seems across their path to roll, 
And across the angry heavens lightnings flash from pole to pole. 
'* Look again!" now cried the captain. "See that triple-forked flash! 
See ! It rends that oak asunder ! Down it tumbles with a crash ! 
Look again ! From out the darkness falls a lance as red as blood ! 
Tears that mighty oak to splinters which an hundred years has stood!" 
Gracious heavens ! right before them drops a ball of colored fire ! 
See ! It mounts the carriage waiting ! Circles all the iron tire ! 
Shocked, the men all backward tumbled save the captain, who, alone, 
Leaped upon the horses' bridles, while the geldings loudly groan. 
Thunders shook the hazel mountain like the fearful earthquake's roar, 
And the clouds above them bursting, now a mighty deluge pour. 
Hoary Nature groaned and tumbled like her anchors had give way, 
Or a tiger in the jungle when he rends the shrinking prey. 
Now the storm has spent its fury and the winds begin to moan, 
As if mourning for the giants which the storm has overthrown. 
Ceased the thunders now to frighten, and the lightnings ceased to fall ; 
And the ladies taking courage, came forth from the rocky hall. 

Then the captain to the horses, "up, there, Vulcan ! Dexter fleet!" 

And the geldings in a moment rose and stood upon their feet. 

"Now then," spoke the brawny woodsman, "you may on your M^ay 

proceed. 
And as you are past all danger yon will not my service need." 



36 HOLLAND BANE. 

When they mounted in the carriage, Charley Pride took up the reins ; 

And the doctor gave the woodsman twenty dollars for his pains. 

As they left the rocky summit now toward the waterfall, 

Looking back, they saw the captain standing in his rocky hall. 

When they pass the Glen of Brady what should catch fair Phoebe's eye ? 

Why should Gracy scream with terror ? What should make the horses shy? 

Was it mere imagination ? Or a phosphorescent light ? 

They declared they saw poor Mabel in a gown of flowing white. 

They declared they saw her plainly ; and from out the narrow glen 

Cries there came of female anguish, and the tramp of armed men. 

Charley shouted to the horses ; tighter then the reins compressed ; 
Braced his feet against the dashboard, laid the lash on quick and fast. 
On they hasten down the mountain like the strong November wind, 
Till they gain the booming river, leave the haunted Glen behind.. 
When they reached the Wilson mansion it was after one o'clock ; 
And they heard the house dog barking and the crowing of the cock. 
After such a night of terror Phoebe slept by Gracy's side ; 
And within the room adjoining Rolland slept with Charley Pride. 

At their breakfast spoke the doctor, ' ' Reckless youth with beardless chin, 

Now the summer days are over and the college days begin. 

So if you would stack your honors as you stack your knife and fork, 

You must pack your Vade Moecum and pull out for ' old ' New York, 

There you'll find a pack of Medics quite as reckless as yourself ; 

And a lot of old Professors seeking honor less than pelf. 

For that bunch of ' fuss and feathers ' with the tuberose on her breast, 

I would say just ' quit your meanness ;' fire the boys and take a rest. 

When your lover gets his Sheepskin you can then renew the joke ; 

But while he is carving ' subjects,' tie your love up in a poke." 

At the doctor's blunt expressions Phoebe felt inclined to swoon ; 
But she thought it too ridic'lous, so let fall her silver spoon. 
Then the laugh went 'round the table like a silver tambourine. 
But within the eye of Phoebe just one little tear was seen. 



ROLLAND BANE. 37 

"Dr. Wilson," spoke the maiden, " I just think j^ou're awful mean; 

That you never loved a maiden is quite plainly to be seen." 

"No," replied the doctor, laughing ; "it was leap year then, you sec, 

Mrs. Wilson did the courting ; Mary Jane proposed to me. 

We'll not'quarrel about it, Phoebe. Rolland, you will not protest 

If I kiss this bunch of sweetness, with the rose bud on her breast V 

"No," said Rolland, "I'm not jealous (as he lit his meerschaum pipe). 

Cherries, to enjoy their sweetness, must be plucked when they are ripe." 

"There ! Let ap!" cried Mrs. Wilson, "Rolland granted only one. 

Thirteen kisses is outrageous, kissing still and hanging on." 

"Thirteen kisses was it, Mary? I had counted but eleven ; 

So I'll pick another cherry just to make the number even." 

"How I pity you, dear Phoebe, doctors are such horrid churls; 
And I hope your future husband won't be kissing all the girls." 

"Think of me," said Gracy, pouting : "Papa said it was a sin, 
When in playing, Walter Mason pressed his lips against my chin. 
If the cherry lips of Walter once should slip and press my own. 
Then my papa's fair example for his daughter will atone. 
Walter now is almost twenty ; I was sixteen years last June. 
Would you think it awfid naughty if I kiss my lover soon ?" 

Then spoke Rolland. "Oh, you darling ! If you're spoiling for a kiss, 
You shall have one just for comfort ; so-take this-and this-and this. 
Beg your pardon, Phoebe Rollins, but I knew you did'nt care ; 
So when you see Walter Mason you and he can make it square." 

"Doctor Wilson," called out Charley, " Here's a man from Bristol Creek, 

Says you're wanted there instanter ; Mrs. Bristol's very sick." 

"All right, Charlej", bring out Snow Drop. What are people married for ? 

If the Bristols keep increasing, we will have another war. 

Rolland, you can read up Fractures; Mary will the girls employ; 

I will let you know at dinner if it be a girl or boy." 



38 HOLLAND BANE. 

"Mrs. Wilson," now spoke Phoebe, " cannot Gracy spend tlie day 
At my house ? I've much to show her and a lot of things to say." 
" Oh, yes ! Gracy can go with you ; Holland Bane can see her home. 
I suppose you've many secrets which you'd rather talk alone." 



Phoebe in her private chamber lovely Gracy did retain, 

Where she told her all the secrets of her love with Holland Bane. 

Phoebe told how much she loved him, showed her her engagement ring; 

Told her they were to be married some day early in the spring. 

"Here's a handsome Turkish album Rolland Bane has give to me; 

Here's a pair of velvet slippers I have worked with i? and B. 

Rolland soon must leave me, Gracy, as you've heard your papa say, 

And I'll be so very lonely while my lover's far away. 

But through all the gloomy winter you will be my faithful friend ; 

You must come to see me often, many happy hours we'll spend." 

"Then when I am married, Gracy, you shall stand close by my side; 
You shall be my left hand lady when I am dear Rolland's bride. 
If you'll keep the secret, Gracy (smiling in the girl's brown eyes), 
I will send for Walter Mason, and we'll give him a surprise. 
I will tell him that my cousin May has come from Chanticleer; 
We would deem it a great pleasure if he'd spend this evening here. 
Then I'll dress you like a princess, like the Queen of Sheba fair ; 
I'll array you in white satin and put jewels in your hair. 
When he comes I'll introduce you as my cousin Mary Bliss ; 
You must look your sweetest, Gracy, and must greet him with a kiss. 
Then I'll give you up my parlor for a happy hour or more. 
While my lover takes his sweetheart for a stroll along the shore." 

" Oh, you angell" shouted Gracy, "you are just two sweet to save!" 
And she clasped her to her bosom and a hundred kisses gave. 
"I have heard of many ladies who have other bosoms blest. 
But of all the happy schemers, you're the sweetest and the best." 



ROLLAND BANE. 39 

Then she sent for Walter Mason, and had Gracy dressed in white, 
With a garment soft and fluffy shining like the stars at night. 

Rolland was the first to enter ; seeing Gracy standmg there, 
Dressed in Phoebe's cream white satin, with her jewels in her hair; 
Spoke aloud: "My sweetest Phoebe! oh, my queen of many charms!" 
And before he saw his blunder folded Gracy in his arms. 
And a kiss so warm and fervent pressed upon her dewy lips, 
That she felt the shock electric to her very finger tips. 

Gracy screamed. "Help! fire and murder ! robbers! Phoebe, bring the 

broom!" 
Just as, half unrobed, fair Phoebe bounded in the open room. 
' 'Gracious Heavens ! " shouted Rolland, ' 'what a pass you've brought me to ! 
What in name of mighty Csesar are you girls a trying to do ?" 
O'er the shoulders of fair Phoebe Gracy quick her mantle threw, 
And right through the entrance rushing, up the stairs the maidens flew. 

Rolland thought he had been swindled, thought they'd used him pretty 

rough ; 
But upon a second thinkmg thought the show was cheap enough. 
Now upstairs he heard the patter of the little feet that fell, 
And the maidens' merry laughter ringing like a silver bell. 

Phoebe now had finished robing and appeared in navy blue, 

While across her shapely shoulders she her pink mantilla threw. 

"You had slipped in through the keyhole. I am onto all your tricks. 

You'll be older when you catch me in another such a fix." 

Just as Phoebe these words uttered, Walter Mason rang the bell, 

And she hastened him to welcome, and inquire if he was well. 

"Walter," spoke the wily Phrebe, "'tis my cousin, Mary Bliss." 
Gracy grasped liis hand in welcome and received him with a kiss. 
"Oh, you rogue! now, Gracy Wilson! I should say you are a Bliss. 
And he clasped her to his bosom and bestowed another kiss. 



40 ROLLANB BANB. 

"By whose gracious interposing should I Gracy Wilson meet? 
What on earth makes you so pretty? Yon are sweet enough to eat!" 

"Here's the little schemer, Walter, who this meeting brought about ; 
Here's the lovers' friend," said Rolland, as he led fair Phoebe out. 
"How shall I reward you, Phoebe? Oh, you darling little miss!" 
And upon her pure white forehead pressed a warm and fervent kiss. 
"All right, Walter, take another, Phcebe Rollins owes you three, 
In return for three sweet favors which your Gracy gave to me." 

Phoebe paid the debt of honor, then declared that they were square. 
" Walter, you will please be seated ; Gracy, here's my easy chair. 
I must take a stroll with Rolland, and should we our walk prolong, 
Here's my dominoes and album, and here lies my latest song. 
Make yourselves at home, dear children, we'll be back within an hour; 
So improve the happy moments ; time will blight the fairest flower." 

Then spoke Rolland when they parted, ' ' you have done an act most sweet. 
Those two fond hearts, pining, sighing, were refused a chance to meet. 
I am sure they love each other ; Walter's worthy that I know ; 
Though I cannot see the reason why the doctor thinks not so. 
True, they are too young to marry; what great harm can meeting do? 
If their love is pure and constant they can wait a year or two." 

"Yes, dear Rolland," answered Phoebe, as she drew close to his side, 
"For that girl I felt so sorry that this afternoon I cried. 
Then I promised the dear creature they should in my parlor meet. 
And should spend an hour together as we strolled along the street. 
How can hearts so warm and tender, as young Gracy 's and my own. 
Still preserve their pristine sweetness in a prison all alone ? 

"Take the rose bud in the garden; cover up its petals bright; 
Hide it from the dews of evening, shade it from the sun's warm light : 
It will pine for what it feeds on, drooping like the willow tree. 
So a maiden's heart keeps glowing by her lover's company. 



HOLLAND BANE. 41 

See the yellow bird and blue jay what bright colors plume their wings ; 
How the ring dove coos and coaxes ; how the robin gaily sings. 
How the white hen sings and nestles ; what a crest the cock receives ; 
How the swallows skim the lakelet, twitter 'neatli the shady eaves. 
When the warm sun of the springtime clothes them in their brightest hue, 
Each one seeks its mate and lover ; instinct tells them what to do. 
Why should then God's noblest creatures quench the flame of soft desires, 
When the kindly breath of nature waives to life the passion fires ? 
I would rather be a mummy in an old Egyptian tomb. 
Than a maid without a lover, than a bride without a groom." 

"What sweet logic," answered Rolland. "Phoebe, you are always right. 

God who made us male and female, bade the sexes to unite. 

When the God of earth and lieaven sent the man and woman forth, 

From the sunny bowers of Eden to the country in the north : 

Multiply, then said Jehova, Let the earth replenished be. 

Till your children, great and mighty, stretch from sea to farthest sea. 

I would rather be a sphinx head watching o'er the slimy Nile, 

With my heart a block of granite and my breast a ruined pile ; 

Than a man devoid of manhood, passionless and uusupplied ; 

Than a youth without a sweetheart, than a groom without a bride. 

Far adown the stream they wandered till they came within a dell. 
Where the maples spread their branches and the floating shadows fell. 
There they rested for a moment while the pale moon's silver beam 
Fell on mountain, hill and valley, glimmered in the crystal stream. 

Then spoke Rolland, "On to-morrow I must leave fair Riverdale. 

I must cross the Alleghenys on the winding iron rail. 

I must go to win my laurels 'mong the craf t}"" sons of men. 

Many moons w^iil come and vanish ere I see my love again. 

Soon will come the frosts of winter and the snow will fill the street; 

But in vain j^ou'U listen, Phoebe, for the sound of Rolland's feet. 

But when melt the snows of winter by the genial southern breeze ; 

Bloom the flowers in your garden, and the birds sing in the trees ; * 



43 ROLLAND BANE. 

AVlien tlie clover blossoms glisten on the verdant river side ; 
Then across the hazel mountains I will come to claim v^y bride. 
Shall I find you waiting, longing for that sweet hymeneal day ? 
AVill your love be pure and constant while your lover's far away ?" 

Two white arms his neck encircled, one small mouth his lips caressed . 

While the maiden wept her sorrow on her faithful lover's breast. 

"Oh, my RoUand! my dear Rolland! How my lonely heart must bleed ! 

Months will seem like years eternal ! Days will into ages speed ! 

Where will then these ringlets nestle ? Where shall then my bosom rest? 

Ev'ry moment I will wait thee, thy sweet image in my breast. 

Ev'ry moment thou art absent, for thy health my prayers will start. 

I will lock thy sacred image in the deep cells of my heart. 

When I press my lonely pillow and my ev'ning prayers are said, 

I will ask another blessing, that the angels guard thy bed. 

When my eyes are closed in slumber and the darkness covers me, 

In my sleep I'll clasp my lover ; all my dreams shall be of thee. 

Speed, oh, speed that sweet May morning when I'll clasp thee to my heart, 

Call thee lover, husband, darling, and we'll meet no more to part." 

As upon the calla lily dew from off the maple slips, 

Rolland rained a thousand kisses on the maiden's dewy lips. 

It is said that female beauty even Gabriel's bosom charms ; 

Long the lovers sat in silence locked within each others' arms. 

He could feel her great carotid pulsate on his downy cheek. 

In her breast the warm heart throbbing told of love she could not speak. 

Then those dreamy eyes unclasping, swept their lashes o'er liis face, 

Moved her lips, and then she nestled closer in his strong embrace. 

"Rolland, in yon pure bright heaven can we hope for greater bliss? 
Can that world bestow a rapture sweeter than we feel in this ? 
When the lieart with bliss is brimming can it hold one atom more? 
Will the joy be more entrancing on that bright eternal shore ? 
Joy there may be, more eternal 'mong the spirits of the skies ; 
But can that be sweeter, purer, which in heavenly bosoms rise? 



ROLLANI) BANE. 43 

Now I fear tlie hour lias vanished when young maids should seek their 

rest, 
But there seems no past, no future, when my head's upon thy breast. 
Now the night breeze damp and chilly stirs the water in its flight, 
And my hands grow cohl and restless 'neatli the pale moon's silvery light. 
One short hour we promised Gracy has been lengthened into three ; 
Hours I'll warrant just as blissful as they've been to you and me." 

Rolland cast his autumn beaver right about her slender form, 
In his palm one hand protected, took the other 'neath his arm. 
While they quick retrace their footsteps, and the journey measure o'er. 
When they reached the little cottage Phoebe rapped upon the door. 

"Bless my heart," said Gracy Wilson, as she set the portal wide, 

"You two must have had a picnic on the grassy river side. 

We did think that you were drowned I (here she paused to catch her 

breath.) 
Or were kidnapped, or were married ! I was almost scared to death !" 
"We prolonged the time on purpose, you sweet little turtle dove, 
That your young hearts, pining, sighing, might enjoy each other's love." 
Gracy clasped her to her bosom, whispered in her ear to hush ; 
The effect of warm caresses lingered in the crimson blush. 

Then spoke Gracy, "I am certain ^o?^?' heart has been doubly blest. 

For your kind and sister feeling for 7ny little aching breast. 

Now if you will both excuse me I will take my journey straight; 

For my mother wdll expect me though the hour is getting late." 

"I'll go with you," now spoke Rolland, "You are both too young to trust! 

After such intoxication, I'm afraid you might get lost." 

' Good-by all," said Phoebe, sighing, " Don't forget to call again; 

You will call to-morrow, Rolland, just before you take the train." 

On that bright September morning more than fifteen years ago, 
Rolland found full much to worry ; many pleasures to forego. 



44 HOLLAND BANE. 

As he set about preparing for liis journey to tlie sea ; 
Packing wardrobe, books and trinkets, and the cash to pay his fee. 
Tlien when all had been made ready and his baggage had been checked, 
Sank his heart at thoughts of parting more than one would ere expect. 

"Good-by, doctor, I will see you when my college days are o'er. 
If they don't decide to 'fire' me just a month or two before." 
"Good-by, Rolland," said the doctor, "make the college 'Profs' youi 

friends ; 
Then you'll graduate with honor ; little more on you depends." 
" Good-by, now, good mother Wilson; Gracy, you shall have a kiss." 
Then the youth embraced the maiden, saying "I will give you this 
For a keepsake. You and Phoebe must be more than friends in name ;" 
As he gave a golden locket which from Walter Mason came. 
Then said Rolland, "I must hasten, there's another little friend 
Waiting for a farewell greeting ; then my sad farewells will end." 
Then he hastened to the cottage for the time was growing late ; 
Now the hour was almost seven, and the train should leave at eight. 

Phoebe waited for her lover in a dress beyond compare, 

Decked with flowers fresh and fragrant, and her jewels in her hair. 

Not an eye must see their parting in her parlor all alone ; 

Phoebe wept her lover's leaving ; there her little heart made moan. 

Words must fail to tell the sorrow which her gentle heart possessed; 

Long upon his neck she lingered, wept upon her lover's breast. 

''Here's a little present, Rolland, from the girl who wears your heart 

(And she gave the velvet slippers); all the gift I may impart. 

For my sake you'll wear them, Rolland, and when you the letters see. 

You will think of one who gave them ; think of her who sighs for thee." 

Phoebe's present was accepted, and a bright, bejeweled band, 
Rolland taking from its casket, placed upon her soft white hand. 
"For m)^ sake you'll wear it. Phoebe, and when you the jewel see. 
You will think of liim who gave it; think of one M-^ho'd die for thee." 
Friends must part and hearts must sever; but their anguish who can tell? 



ROLLAND BANE. 45 

As they tore themselves asunder and he whispered liis farewell. 
As the train flew past the cottage and the twilight lingered still, 
RoUand saw her small white kerchief waving from her window sill. 

All that night the long train rattled ; all the night the coaches ride ; 

Shooting through tlie long black tunnel, rushing down the mountain side. 

Flying o'er the metal bridges, skimming o'er the crystal stream; 

Till toward the rising sunlight Pliiladelphia's steeples gleam. 

Leaving then the city sleeping, onward still we fly away, 

Passing Bristol in our journey, facing still the God of day. 

Crossing now the bridge of Trenton where the British Squadron stood, 

And the Father of his country led his army o'er the flood. 

We could hear the shop bells ringing and the whistles lively call, 

Calling workmen from their slumbers, waking up the sons of toil. 

Leaving Trenton, Brunswick passing, we to Jersey City came. 

Where we saw the noble Hudson rolling like a sea of flame. 

On her breast a thousand sail boats danced like children at their play, 

While the stately merchant vessels rode at anchor in the bay. 

Far as eye could pierce the distance up and down the river side. 

We beheld the Empire city resting on the flowing tide. 

We had boarded now the ferry and were crossing o'er the tide. 
While the ships of every nation seemed to lie on every side. 
See ! a mighty palace wheeling right from out the crystal bay. 
Coming on with flying colors, right across our path she lay ! 
In the sun the gilded eagle seemed upon her poop to burn ; 
Rockets from her bow were firing, and a cannon from the stern ! 
Up the danger flag was hoisted ! Blew the whistles long and loud ! 
While across her bow we darted like the lightning from the cloud. 
"Holy Mother!" cried the watchman, "see that little sailing craft! 
Right before our keel she tumbled and we raked her fore and aft!" 
"Lower the life boat! Drop the anchor!" now the frantic captain cried. 
"See that father, child, and mother struggling in the roaring tide !" 

Rolland heard the mother screaming as the waters hid her child ; 
Heard the father loudly calling ; saw their struggles fierce and wild. 



46 ROLL AND BANE. 

Then upon the "starboard" railing of his coat and boots made free ; 
"To the rescue !" shouted Rolland, as he plunged within the sea. 
Strong men raised their hands in horror as they saw his fearful leap, 
Many fathoms from the railing headlong to the roaring deep. 
Children shrieked and women fainted, while the whistles loudly roar; 
Tumbled up the yeasty billows like the breakers on the shore. 
Man}'" thought upon the vessel Rolland sought a watery grave ; 
But while yet they stared in wonder, rose his head above the wave. 
Like a duck upon the water now he stemmed the current wild ; 
In his right hand grasped the mother, in his left her infant child. 
Held their heads above the water, shouted to the tardy crew, 
"I have got the wife and baby! save the man the first you do !" 

Soon the seamen drag the father from the angry boiling waves. 
Then they reach the child and mother whom the gallant Rolland saves. 
Rescue them from death impending, place them safely in the boat ; 
While brave Rolland like a feather seems upon the waves to float. 
Then the boatmen rescued Rolland from a white wave's foaming crest. 
And the father's heart o'erflowing, clasped the young man to his breast. 

Then the shouting of the people rose above the the billows' roar ; 
Echoed from the distant mainland, rolled along the other shore. 
Then a shout from off the mainland rose above the whistles cry, 
Made the very city tremble ; shook the firmament on high. 
Then the ladies waved their kerchiefs ; flags were held out to the breeze ; 
Hats were waved and rockets thundered like a sea above the seas. 
Then the deep mouthed brazen cannon roared along the troubled tide ; 
Shook to rest the surging billows ; sent its echo far and wide. 
Joined its hoarse voice with the people's as they Rolland's praises told, 
Like the thunder of Jehovah which o'er Sinai's mountain rolled. 

When he came upon the vessel each one clasped him by the hand, 
And an order for a new suit was supplied by Captain Rand. 
Then the watchman passed his hat round, and a hundred pounds or more 
Went to swell his weak exchequei ; to supply his scanty store. 



ROLLANB BANE. 47 

When now to the ferry landing they had forced their way along, 

Rolland sprang upon the platform, disappeared among the throng. 

On through Cortlandt street he hurried, straight for Broadway then he 

made, 
Till he heard the rushing tumult of that avenue of trade. 
How the senses reel and totter I How the eyes do widely stare ! 
When at first they see the tumult on that mighty thoroughfare. 
Oh I the rattle, roar and rumble of the wheels that roll along ; 
Oil ! the mad whirl of the carriage I oh, the crowding of the throng ! 
One would think a mighty cyclone from its bonds had been set free ; 
Tearing madly through the city, rushing onward to the sea. 
Next he found the large triangle at the head of Chatham street, 
Where the street lines point and center and a hundred horse cars meet. 
Boarding then a car to northward, soon he made his w^inding way 
To the street where stands the college, and college doctors stay. 
Every state within the Union had its represen'tives here. 
And a few had dusky faces from the nations 'round the sphere. 

"Doctor," now at last spoke Rolland, "if you care to take a fool, 

I have come to win my laurels in an alopathic school. 

If you think I'll make a doctor, or succeed in surgery. 

Hand me out your season ticket, and announce your college fee." 

"If we can't improve your pudding we at least can save your hash; 

Here's our ticket for the season; we will not refuse your cash." 

Now thought Rolland, looking round him, talking to himself the while, 

" I will seek the Hotel Compton, and the lonely hours beguile 

Till to-morrow, when I'll seek me out a quiet boarding place." 

Then he started, quickly pausing, thought he saw a well known face. 

Then the stranger, blandly smiling, reached his hand and gave his name. 

' ' I am William Walter Evans, from the Granite State I came. 

Like myself are j^ou a stranger for the winter season come? 

I have just secured my lodging and am looking for a chum.'* 

"I did think I knew you, Evans, when at first I noticed you; 

Something in your voice and features makes me think of one I knew." 



48 HOLLAND BANE. 

"Not unlikely." lie responded. "Now as you have paid your fee 
And are looking for a lodging, would you care to room with me?" 
"Well, I'd just as soon," said Rolland, "we're all strangers here to-day. 
I will go and see your lodging if you'll only lead the way." 

Evans led him to a dwelling in a wide and quiet square, 

And they mounted to his lodging by a long and winding stair. 

"Here's my room," now said the stranger, " do you think you'll like the 

same ? 
By what name shall I address you ?" ' 'I am known as Holland Bane. 
These will do at present, Evans, though they're far above the ground. 
I will stop to-night at Compton, and to-morrow come around." 
"I'm so glad," responded Evans. "We'll agree, you may be sure; 
So if you will send your baggage, I will make the room secure." 
"I'll just take my satchel with me to the Compton House to-night, 
And will see you in the morning. I've a note or two to write." 

Holland kept a musing, thinking, as he walked to his hotel, 
Where he'd seen his new acquaintance, but he really could not telL 
"Seems to me," said Rolland, musing, "something in that young man's 

eyes 
Makes me think that he is feigning, or is wearing a disguise. 
But I will accept his offer (as he thought the matter o'er), 
In that way I may discover where we two have met before." 

After supper Holland rested, threw aside his overcoat, 
Dropped a line to Dr. Wilson, and to Phoebe wrote a note. 
Then he thought, "I'll just a moment look within this liquor bar. 
That I may behold its splendor and secure a good segar." 
But to his intense amazement who should he see drinking there, 
But 3'0\mg Evans, and a comrade with mustache and curly hair. 
Holland waited but a moment, then he stepped behind a screen, 
And his exit was so sudden that he knew he was not seen. 
Tlien he watched them for a moment from behind the open door, 
Scanned the face of Evans' conirade, marked the suit the young man 
wore. 



ROLLAND BANE. 49 

He beheld their faces plainly from behind the close wire screen, 

Ana could see that they were planning, working out some wicked scheme. 

Then his footsteps quick retracing, as his hiding place he leaves, 

Came to him the startling knowledge, "I am in a den of thieves. 

But I'll make myself detective, aud if I don't bring the same 

To the bar of justice speedy, then my name's not Holland Bane." 

Then he hunted up a gun store, looked the pistols sharply o'er, 
And secured the best revolver which the man had in his store. 
Then he ordered up his baggage to his room on second floor, 
But before he had retired carefully secured the door. 
Then he placed his new revolver 'neath his pillow and his head, 
Cocked and charged in every chamber with a heavy charge of lead. 
Then he sank to quiet slumber, but, as pleasant dreams arise, 
He sees Phoebe bending o'er him with her large and dreamy eyes. 

It was sometime after midnight he was wakened with a click. 

As of some one at his doorway who the lock was trying to pick. 

Then he grasped his new revolver, turning quickly on his side ; 

Through the darkness watched the room door till he saw it open wide. 

Bang ! the crack of his revolver rang upon the midnight air ; 

Then he heard a cry of anguish and quick footsteps on the stair. 

Then he sprang outside the door in the hall's diminished light, 

And the thief with loaded weapon followed in his headlong flight. 

'* Halt!" cried Rolland. ''Now surrender, or your life the debt will pay!, 

Throw your hands above your shoulders ! stand erect and face this way I» 

Cowering like a beaten spaniel right beneath the gas's glare, 

Rolland saw young Evans' comrade with mustache and curly hair. 

By this time the house was risen and had gathered in the hall. 

They had heard the sound of shooting and had found the leaden ball 

Holland's ball had found an entrance right within the fleshy arm. 

Tore the flesh and caused some bleeding, but had done no greater harm. 

To his chamber Holland darted, having donned his pants and vest ; 

He brought down his case aud bandage aud the wounded arm he dressed. 

"Here's an oflBcer, now, young man, who'll conduct you to your cell, 

And a doctor who will tend you till he sees that you are well. 



50 HOLLAND BANE. 

Here's some money that will buy you something more than prison grace, 
Come and see me when you're better, I will help you find a place." 
Going to the upper hallway low he turned the gas's light. 
And retired within his chamber where he slept till morning light. 

When within the Bank of Commerce all his cash was safely laid, 
Then he went with all his baggage to the room where Evans stayed. 
Evans met iiim at the doorway, helped him kindly to alight. 
Grasped his hand in tone of friendship, hoped he'd had a pleasant night. 
"Oh, yes! thank you," answered Eolland, "I have rested pretty well; 
Save for shooting of a robber who was caught in the hotel." 
At the mention of a robber Evans feigned to show surprise, 
But the sharp, quick eye of Rolland saw deception in his eyes. 

Many days they went together to and from the college hall. 

Rolland watched young Evans sharply, but could gain no point at all. 

Neither could he guess or venture where he saw his face and eyes ; 

Rolland failed to know his room-mate, penetrate his deep disguise. 

*' Rolland," spoke the Demonstrator, who was known as Pat McGuire, 

"That my students learn dissection thoroughly, is my desire 

I have just secured a subject of a slender female frame; 

She no doubt has been a beauty known to lovers and to fame." 

"Hold!" cried Rolland, "did you say so, or did I just now opine 

She was beautiful as Venus, with a skin as soft and fine ? 

Then I say let such a beauty in the sepulcher remain ; 

In these halls do not expose her and her heavenly form profane." 

' ' What care I for female beauty which is only deep as skin ! 
I have carved a hundred beauties with a skin as white and thin. 
Women strong men only torture, and destroy their better lives. 
I hold all a female's good for is to dull our cast-steel knives. 
Oh ! how I do love to carve them ! I could work and take' no rest 
Cutting out the slender muscles ; carving out the rounded breast. 
Now if you and j-^our friend Evans want a job both soft and nice, 
And don't care to pay a bonus — that is, pay a double price : 



HOLLAND BANE. 51 

I will sell you this young lady (said old Patsy with a laugh). 
You can lay her on the table and each one can take a half." 

RoUand could not help but curse him ; thought his language rather rough. 
Said he'd sell both soul and body if he only got enough. 

Patsy once did love a damsel, I have heard the people say; 
But was jilted by the maiden just before his wedding day. 
Since which time he hates like vipers all the petticoated race, 
And would rather meet the devil than a woman face to face. 

For the slender female subject Rolland paid a good round sum; 
Saying, "Get the subject ready; notify us when to come." 

Holland now went to his lodging, where he laid his books away, 
While his room-mate, Walter Evans, took a walk along Broadway. 
When he had unlocked his door at his feet a message fell, 
And he knew by the envelop 'twas from her he loved so well. 
He was glad to hear from some one for his heart had been like lead. 
So he quickly broke the wrapper and found this was what it said : 

"Oh, my darling lover Rolland, I now write from Riverdale, 

And still while writing tremble and my ruby lips grow pale. 

You will comprehend my trouble when I tell you mother died 

On the last night of November, and now lies by father's side. 

Do you wonder that I tremble and my aching heart should moan. 

When I think I am an orphan in this friendless world alone? 

Mother left my Uncle Hiram to administer her will, 

And he promised on her death-bed all her wishes to fulfill. 

From my home and little cottage I was not to be removed ; 

I should always have my freedom and should marry whom I loved. 

Now then, Rolland, my dear mother was scarce cold within her grave, 

When her wishes disregarding he this cruel mandate gave 

And he sent this hateful message by my brutal cousin Jim, 

Saying I should close the cottage and must come and live with him. 



52 - HOLLAND BANE. 

I am really almost crazy for I know tliat Hiram King 

Is a cruel, heartless tyrant, and will do most anything. 

When I think of all my trouble it most turns my little head 

If it were not that I love you I could wish that I were dead. 

Then he saj^s within the message that just one week from to-day 

I must close my mother's dwelling and must go with him to stay, 

And there lives his old maid sister whom you know I so despise, 

My old skinny aunt Maria with her deep and piercing eyes. 

And to insult me in sorrow and embitter all my life. 

He then adds, ' My Jimmy loves you, and would like you for a wife ' 

And to think my Uncle Hiram lives from here three miles away 

Like a bird I'll be in person all the long, long winter day. 

All my friends, and Gracie Wilson, who is very sweet to me, 

I will have to leave behind me and will scarcely ever see. 

I am only twenty, Holland, but my birthday comes in May. 

I will then be my own mistress and will care not what they saj^ 

I will have you here, dear Rolland ; then my husband and my friend 

I will have one breast to lean upon, one strong arm to defend." 

Holland's eyes are filled with tears as he first begins the page 
When he reads about her uncle, then he grinds his teeth with rage ; 
Sparks from out his flashing eyeballs, now the darkness might illume; 
Prayers and curses now alternate, as he walks about his room. 

" Save, O God! my lone canary from the cruel archer's arm ! 
Cursed be the vile deceiver who would dare to do her harm ! 
Oh ! protect that faithful bosom while in distant lands I roam ! 
Curse the tyrant who would snatch her from her little cottage home ! 
How can parents on their death-bed, unless they their children hate, 
Leave a cruel aunt or uncle guardian of their children's fate ? 
But even yet he may permit her, and her prayers may prevail, 
To enjoy her little cottage and her home in Riverdale. 
But I'll write him, and will tell him if he wrongs a single hair 
Of the head of Phoebe Rollins — Fanny Rollin's only heir — 
If he'll disregard the wishes and the last will of the dead. 
Condign vengence swift and fearful, I will visit on his head." 



ROLLAND BANE. 53 

Holland now began his letters, and continued still to write 
Till the midnight hour had vanished and the moon was out of sight ; 
Then he placed them in his pocket where he might them safely keep, 
And upon his couch reclining, soon his eyes were closed in sleep. 

He was startled sometime after by a rustle at the door ; 
And he saw his room-mate Evans quickly walk across the floor. 
Then he sank into an arm-chair, stopping not to strike a light, 
And he moaned as one in slumber who sees visions of the night. 

Then his lips moved as in talking, and his being seemed to quake. 
Holland thought he heard him mutter, " Why did I the girl forsake ?" 
Soon he sunk to quiet slumber, but though drink his senses steep, 
Holland heard the name of " Mabel " muttered in his dreamy sleep. 

Next day Holland went to lectures, but young Evans staid a-bed, 
Saying he was all "up broken " — had a slight pain in his head. 
As the day was cold and chilly, Holland sitting by the fire. 
Felt a tap upon his shoulder. Turning, he beheld McGuire. 

" "Well, young man, your ' subject's' ready, and I'm glad I can relate 

That I think I found some symptoms of an interesting state. 

Bring your comrade down this evening, and ther'll be a grand display, 

And I'll have the case examined in a demonstrative way." 

Holland thanked him, and returning, told young Evans to prepare 

For the evening's demonstration of the " subject" young and fair. 

Darkness now the city covers, like a thick and sable pall ; 

As young Evans and his room-mate go to the dissecting hall. 

Full one hundred naked bodies, to the left and to right, 

But upon the center table lay a body wrapped in white. 

Full two hundred medics students stood around with cast-steel knives, 

Carving at the lifeless bodies as if working for their lives. 

''Gents," then spoke the demonstrator, •' you will all now face this way, 
We have here a ' subject ' waiting which will make a grand display ; 



1)4: ROLLAND BANE. 

She no doubt has had a lover whose foul name she loved to cull, 
But like many more unluckics this fair maid has liad a fall. 

Evans, you will take position just beneath the gas jet's light ; 

Have your knives and scalpels ready. Holland, stand upon the right." 

Rolland now took his position right behind the table rail, 

But as he beheld young Evans then he thought his face grew pale. 

"Now, then," said the demonstrator, " all behave with proper grace 

While I take the muslin cover from the fair and youthful face. 

The cloth was raised, and such a cry rose on the startled air 

As shook the very lamps on high and caused the lights to flare. 

When Evans saw that ghastly face, his eyeballs wildly stare. 

"Oh! Mabel Wilson!" then he shrieked and clasped his sandy hair. 

He reeled like one in battle shot, and heavy fell like lead ; 

And as he fell, his sandy wig tore reckless from his head ; 

Convulsions shook his manly frame, his raven hair he tore, 

While from his face his large red beard broke loose upon the floor. 

While powerful fits his being rend, his panting nostril bleeds, 

And from between his clenched teeth the bloody foam proceeds. 

Then waking as from slumber deep, he looks toward the door, 

Then with a mighty bounding leap, he springs from off the floor. 

In vain a hundred iron hands do grasp him now in vain ; 

He casts them from him like the sands swept by the foaming main ; 

Then rushing madly to the stair, a-down its flight he flies, 

His shrieks do cut the midnight air like lightning from the skies. 

" Stand back! stand back! you hounds of hell! you midnight dogs, 

stand back ! 
You dare not seize John Rollins' heir, nor place him on the rack. 
You've dragged poor Mabel's sacred dust from out its narrow cell, 
And now you dance around her corpse like blackish fiends of hell ! 
How dare you thus insult the dead — profane the silent tomb ? 
How dare you with j'^our horrid knives explore her virgin womb ? 
Take back that pure white face, I say, and hide it in the grave. 



nOLLAND BANE. 55 

It turns my licavcn into hell ; my soul it cannot save." 
He brandished high liis long steel knife. " Stand back ! stand back ! I say 
Who tirst lays hands upon my life, his own the debt shall pay." 
A-down the street with flying feet his headlong course he takes, 
And through the guard, now pressing hard, like Spanish bull he breaks- 
He gains the river brink at last, and turns upon the crowd, 
While from Ids throat he yells a note defiance long and loud. 
Then plunging deep within his breast the weapon that he bore, 
He backward falls within the tide, and sinks to rise no more. 

Rolland like a living ghost in speechless terror stood. 

While labored hard his palsied heart to force the stagnant blood. 

He seemed like one bereft of sense, like one of sight struck blind ; 

While broken thoughts and scattered words went rushing through his 

mind. 
A brandy bottle now he saw, of half a pint or more 
He poured the contents down his throat, and sank upon the floor. 
At last from off the river bank the baffled students came, 
They raised him up from off the floor and asked him to explain. 
The brandy now had warmed his heart, and after getting air 
He felt his failing strength return, and mounted on a chair 
And told in simple words and strong, while each one held his breath, 
The story of the maiden's wrong— of Mabel Wilson's death. 
He told them that he knew the corpse, 'twas Major Wilson's child. 
Her lover, Harry Rollins was ; her home was Eidlewild. 
" I never could the young man place, nor pierce his deep disguise, 
Though I had seen his rounded face and knew his dark brown eyes. 
I now insist that we remove the corpse from here to-night, 
And place it in a snow white gown and casket pure and white ; 
And put in on the first express that crosses o'er the wild, 
And send it to the little church that stands in Eidlewild ; 
And send them w^ord to lay the corpse within the grave again, 
And place a slab upon the grave forever to remain. 
And Harry's mother I will write that her unlucky son 
Now lies within the roaring deep where tides unceasing run." 



56 ROLLANB BANE. 

They did as Rolland had advised, and on a snow-wliite bier, 

They moved the corpse from out the place while many dropped a tear. 

" Prepare your theses now young men," the welcome mandate goes, 
" The session now of seventy is drawing to a close." 

Young Rolland in the college hall had had a busy day, 

And now as he returned to rest, a note before him lay. 

He knew the hand, and broke the seal and quick the contents read. 

And as he read, he clenched his fists for this is what it said: 

" Rolland, Rolland, dearest boy ! why don't you write I pray ? 

I have not had a note from you I cannot tell the day. 

My uncle has closed up the house, and taken me to stay 

With him upon the barren farm, full three long miles away. 

And now he says my cousin Jim, must have me for a wife ; 

Or else he'll sell my cottage home and turn me out for life ; 

Unless I cater to his will and thus reward his pains, 

He'll sell my house in Riverdale with all that it contains, 

And make his sister's orphan child the poorest of the poor ; 

And like a tyrant, as he is, will turn me from his door. 

Now, Rolland, I have wept and prayed that death might close my eyes, 

E're I shall marry cousin Jim, whom I so much despise. 

But, oh ! my darling little home, my aching heart must fail, 

To see the house and furniture put up at public sale. 

My pictures, books and instrument, and all my mother gave ; 

How can I see them scattered wide, without the power to save. 

Oh ! write me quick and tell me now how soon you will return. 

That I may see that loving face for which my spirits yearn." 

** My God !" said Rolland ; " not a note.'''' So mad he scarce could speak. 
* ' And I have written every day, full seven every week. 
I see the strategy and guile of that confound' old maid ; 
She intercepts my letters all, and says they are delayed. 
Could Satan with his hellish craft invent a viler scheme ? 



BOLLAND BANE. 57 

Oh ! give me words to speak my wrath — a tongue to vent my spleen ! 

I'll intercept their cursed plans if I am not too late ; 

I'll snatch the spoils from Hiram King and stay the hand of fate. 

Before I lay my head to rest I'll write her my response ; 
I'll write six letters to my love and mail them all at once." 
The letters wrote, he placed them all close to his aching breast, 
And then disrobing for the night he laid him down to rest. 

Of all the boys for mischief since this cruel world begun, 

To cut up funny capers in its circuit round the sim; 

None will match the wicked medics' when they want to have some fun. 

One day they all were lounging within the college hall, 

And talking o'er their escapades in cities great and small. 

One said he didn't have the tin to buy a stove-pipe hat, 

And when he came to graduate 'twould make him feel quite flat. 

One said that he would graduate if he could raise the tin 

To buy two feet of calf-skin boots — one yard of old *' sheep skin." 

Another said the college horse would surely jump the track. 

And he could get a " white sheep skin " from off a " black sheep's" back 

Another said his first best girl would marry him no doubt, 

And wondered where he'd tack his sign or hang his shingle out. 

A wag replied, "just hang your sign upon your wife's clothes-line, 

A square of canton flannel white or yard of muslin fine." 

*' Now, boys, " said Holland; "I move first we trick old Pat McGuire. 

You know how when you speak of love it kindles up his ire ; 

And how he hates the other sex like vipers hate the fire. 

You know how when old Patsy sleeps, how loudly he does snore, 

And always when he goes to bed forgets to lock his door. 

" We have a female 'subject' now, once hale and hearty dame, 

Who from St. Patrick's verdant soil the land of Erin came. 

So now I move to-morrow night when Pat seems all but dead. 

We lift the female subject up and place it in his bed; 



58 ROLLANB BANE. 

And then a brace of old torn cats we'll throw across a pole, 
And make a lot of ten-pin balls across the floor to roll ; 
And get a lot of old tin cans, two cow bells and tin pails, 
And bring up two small yellow dogs and tie them to their tails, 
And fire-crackers by the bunch we'll drop just by his door 
So when they all go off at onoe they'll make a mighty roar." 

The boys all laughed and kicked their heels and tossed their caps on high. 
And said t' would be the richest joke between the earth and skj^ 

"Now, Mr. Bane, we would suggest committees you appoint 
And make the joke of seventy-one complete in every joint." 

*' Well, let me see," says Kolland Bane, " there's John and Charley Stead 

I will appoint to take the * stiff ' and put in Patsy's bed. 

There's Billy Gray and Sammy Black, and Jake and Harry Pratts, 

Will make a good committee, now, to get the old tom cats. 

For canine skill and crafty wit, Pll take old Henry Boggs, 

He's just the man to sneak about, and snake the yellow dogs. 

A good committee now Pll take to get the old tin pans, 

' Tis Joe and Ruben Rattlering and Sandy Andy Sands. 

And for a merry lot of boys to get the two cow bells, 

Pll just appoint old Buckley Horn and Tony Paster Sells. 

And for a quartette of strong hands, to roll the ten-pin balls, 
Pll take Dan Roller, Waxy Plank and Sharp and Archy Falls. 
On fire crackers Pll appoint Old Snap and Letim Bust, 
Who'll not forget to fire them off, because they know they must. 
So now Pll swear you all to keep the secret still and mum, 
And by to-morrow night at twelve all to the college come." 
By Baalam's horse, and Peter's fowl, and Jona's hungry whale, 
They swore to keep the secret fast and not a man to fail. 

Tlie day was wet, the evening dull, the night was pitchy dark, 
And old McGuire said the boys were out upon a lark. 



HOLLAND BANE. 59 

'' There's twenty ' subjects' yet unsold; I'll just impose a fine 

On every one who stays away or don't get here in time. 

I never saw such stupid boys ; they don't appreciate 

The trouble I have had to get these bodies small and great. 

How I must work, and dig and sweat, in church-yards late at night, 

And then often run a narrow risk of being killed outright. 

And when I have just secured some female slim and nice, 

On which I can a bonus ask, or get a double price, 

Some weak and fickle-miuded fool just falls down in a fit. 

Another says he know^s the girl, and I must now submit 

To both return the ' stiff ' and cash which I have got for it. 

I should have had young Rollins' corpse that lies within the bay 

In place of that young female form which Holland took away. 

But I'll get even with them yet ; I'll claim the bones are mine. 

And make them pay for every skull and joint within the spine." 

Thus mused old Patsy on his loss and all his vanished hopes, 

While in one corner of his room lay shovels, picks and ropes ; 

And skeletons upon the walls were grining as in glee 

To see old Patsy smoke his pipe and sip his cup of tea. 

A hundred skulls upon the floor looked up as if they spake : 

" If we had flesh and blood and life a jolly crowd we'd make. 

We smile to think how mourning friends plant flowers on our tombs, 

AA'^hen in his ire, old Pat McGuire just kicks us round his rooms." 

Then taking from his wooden chest a flask both black and full, 
Old Patsy put it to his lips and took a good long pull. 
Awhile he sat with blinking eyes and half reclining head, 
Then rising up like Hamlet's ghost he staggered to his bed ; 
And in the large dissecting room which opened through his door, 
There came a muflled, crackling sound — 'twas Patsy's mighty snore. 

The boys now gathered in the hall with slow and stealthy tread. 
And one was left to watch the door and one old Patsy's bed; 
They now bring up the old tin pans, the cow-bells and tin pails. 
And tie them with a bunch of twine fast to the two dogs' tails ; 



60 HOLLAND BANE. 

Across two tables now they l^y a strong round hickory pole, 
While others get the ten-pin balls and all prepare to roll. 
The tire-crackers then they placed close by the open latch, 
While one now stands at either side prepared to strike a match ; 
Two jolly boys now lift the dame and bear her through the door 
And toss her in old Patsy's bed while loudly he did snore. 

The dogs now all begin to yell, the cats let out their squalls, 
The fire-crackers lend their din, while lively roll the balls. 

Old Patsy opened slow his eyes and looked around a spell, 
Then thought the large dissection room had been transformed to hell. 
He felt the female's clammy hand press heavy on his cheek, 
And saw her slimy lips apart as if about to speak. 
Then started from his drowsy couch with such an awful yell, 
As would have shamed the Mohawk bands or fiends from heaven that 
fell. 

"Holy Mother ! What has happened ! O, St. Patrick, save thy son ! 

Is it earth my feet are tread' en or a hell I'm gaz'en on ? 

Am I dreaming or awaken ? Is my mind in lethe sunk ? 

Was my whiskey-bottle poisoned ? Am I sober? Am I drunk? 

Have the dead to life arisen ? Who has clothed the stiffs with power ? 

Who has set the cats a squalling ? Who let loose the dogs of war? 

Holy Virgin ! O protect me ! Hear the balls of thunder roll ! 

See the forked lightning's flashing cross the skies from pole to pole ! 

Whoop ! Hurrah ! ye sons of Erin ! Wake and come ! a brother calls. 

Now the dead to life returning dance around my college halls. 

Bring ! O bring the living shamrock ! Bring me a shillalah strong ! 

Strike to earth the man or devil who would do old Patsy wrong. 

Oh ! the hellish roar and rattle ! Oh ! the dogs' unearthly yell ! 

Oh! the squalling of the torn cats ! like the battle-cry of hell." 

As the dogs were howling, growling, yelling, running here and there, 
In they run to Patsy's bed-room and upset a wooden chair. 



HOLLAND BANE. 61 

Ou the chair a lamp was burning, which now tumbled to the floor, 
And the oil all catching fire, blazed up with a mighty roar. 
Rolland now was fairly frightened, and his comrades fearing harm, 
Down they darted to the hallway and sent in a fire alarm. 
In a moment now the firemen up came rattling at the door. 
And with hose in hand now ready, soon they reached the upper floor. 
Patsy with a club of hick'ry now was slashing left and right. 
With no cover to protect him save a night-shirt long and white. 
Soon as now the firemen entered and beheld the light that glowed, 
They let go the stream of water which o'er Patsy's body flowed. 

*' Fire ! Murder ! Hold your water !" Patsy fairly shrieked with rage ; 
' ' I am roasted ! I am drowned ! Call the undertaker Sage ! " 
"Now my corpse may be dissected ! O St. Mary! what a pass! 
" Lay me on the center table ; call the whole dissecting class." 

Soon the fire was extinguished and the firemen caught the curs, 
Pitched them through the open window with the cats devoid of furs. 
Then they made the howling Irish carry out the female dead. 
Lay it on the center-table and returned again to bed. 

Patsy lay and groaned and grumbled, swore he'd be revenged at morn, 

Then he took his whisky-bottle and squeezed out another horn. 

As the alcohol intoxent o'er his troubled senses creep, 

Soon his tongue refused to waggle and his eyes were closed in sleep. 

Next day when old McGuire appeared, the boys suppressed a smile, 

And said they could not understand the smell of carbon " ile." 

They asked McGuire if he had heard the college was ou fire ; 

What time of night he went to bed — how late he did retire. 

Then Rolland said, " We just have heard that you enticed a maid 

To stay all night within your room, and in your bed she laid. 

Then Patsy raved and said 'twas all a slander and a lie ; 

"I wouldn't touch a woman's hand," was Patsy's firm reply. 

Then all the boys hurrahed and laughed, and hoped 'twas no offence, 



63 ROLLAND BANE. 

And said they'd take a keg of beer at old McGuire's expense. 
Then Patsy cursed ad college boys and medics far and near, 
But was afraid to answer no, so ordered up the beer. 
The boys now had a jolly time, and shook old Patsy's hand. 
And slapped him on the back and swore to always by him stand, 
And said his ' subjects ' were the best they'd seen in any land. 

And now they said that Holland Bane their orator should be, 
That he should speak at end of term their valedictory. 

The term was drawing to a close, 'twas near the first of May, 

The boys were hustled here and there and had no time for play. 

Examinations now were on ; the Theses all were in, 

The way the boys worked day and night was really quite a sin. 

At last, examination o'er, they all had passed review. 

And Rolland Bane now found his name among the honored few. 

'Twas now announced they all should meet at college hall at night, 
And their diplomas they- should draw beneath the gas' light. 

So Rolland to his room repaired, packed all things good and tight, 
Intending he should take the train when dawned the morning light. 
While he was paying up his rent and getting a receipt, 
A letter through the door was thrown and fell just at his feet. 
He closed the door and broke the seal and quickly scanned it o'er. 
While now his face grew white with rage and fear his bosom tore, 
'Twas from that one, that darling one, for whom his bosom bled. 
Across the waste it came in haste, and this is what it said : 

" O my lover I Darling Rolland ! Do you love me ? can it be ? 
When my heart with grief is breaking and no one to comfort me ? 
Fifteen weeks have come and vanished, yet Pve never got a line; 
"What! oh! what delays your letters? How my aching heart does 

pine. 
Much I fear some great misfortune now has quite o'ertaken thee, 
Or some cruel, lieartless stranger stands between my love and me. 



ROLLANB BANE, 63 

By his threats my uncle Hiram seeks my orphan heart to fright, 

And my cousin still pursues me — asks my hand both day and night. 

I have scorned his hateful offer full a thousand times or more, 

Still with greater zeal he follows, still pursues me as before. 

Now my uncle firm commands me, and presumes to set the day ; 

Now he says I must be married on the coming fourth of May. 

And the hour he has appointed to commit this awful crime 

Is at eight next Wednesday evening — bids me to prepare in time. 

They may force me him to marry, but they can't debauch the dead •, 

Neither can they force the lifeless to profane a marriage bed. 

I've prepared a subtle poison which this aching heart shall still 

Ere I'll yield my spotless person to my lustful cousin's will. 

But I know ther'll come a rescue, though I cannot see the power, 

How I hope 'tis Rolland's coming that may antedate the hour; 

For I dreamed as I w as sinking 'neath a dark and surging wave, 

Some one reached a hand to rescue — some one came in time to save. 

How I've prayed for you, my lover ! Haste ! oh, hasten to my side I 

I can never love another, I can never be his briae. 

I will listen for yeur footsteps, for I know you'll surely come, 

For I know you get my letters, though I never get your own. 

Something tells me you are coming, though the hour is very late ; 

Something wispers, ' Holland's coming, and will stay the hand of fate. ' " 

Like a panther in the forest springing forth his foe to meet, 
Holland darted from his chamber, out he rushed upon the street ; 
Called upon the night expressman, had his trunks re-checked again. 
Ordered carriage to be teady for the flying midnight train. 
"Oh ! my God," he cried in frenzy " this is now the third of May, 
And they've set to-morrow evening for poor Phoebe's wedding day." 
Then he looked upon his schedule, found he'd reached the riverside 
Just one hour before the villian meant to make the girl his bride. 

" Cursed be the son and father who would dare this scheme fulfill. 
And would force a helpless orphan into bonds against her will ! 
Cursed be the man or monster who would dare a maiden wed 



64 HOLLAND BANE, 

Without love to bless their union — prostitute a marriage-bed. 
I will meet these hellish Adllains, I will meet this crafty band, 
I will know why all my letters never reached poor Phoebe's hand." 

" I will beard this King of lions in his den at close of day, 
Whom he holds I'll come to rescue ; from his paws I'll snatch the prey.. 
Cheer up, Phoebe ! oh ! my fair one ! Holland hears your plaintive cry ; 
Now he comes across the mountains with the lightning in his eye. 
I will meet your curst oppressors ; RoUand's heart has never quailed ; 
Like a whirlwind I will seize them — this strong arm has never failed." 

Now the class had all been gathered in the large assembly hall, 
With the doctors and professors and the lamps shown over all. 
Loaded tables with white covers in the center aisle did stand, 
Groaning with champagne and oysters and cigars of choicest brand. 

Then the President arising, spoke about Commencement Day, 
And the many ills and hardships they had met upon the way. 
But he now congratulated all the graduating class, 
In a strict examination not a man had failed to pass. 
One had passed with special honors ; he was proud to give his name- 
Mr. Bane, well-known as Rolland, who from Pennsylvania came. 
Then he urged them do their duty and the King of Terrors face, 
Ne'er forget their Alma Mater, nor the college halls disgrace. 
Then he called them out by number, one by one in royal state. 
And conferred a new diploma on each blushing graduate. 

"Now, then, brothers, if you'll linger," said the old Professor Lane, 
" We will hear a farewell lecture from our brother Doctor Bane ; 
After that 'We'll have a banquet, and the midnight hours beguile 
Till the stars forget their courses and the moon begins to smile." 

Holland stepped upon the platform, while the boys all yelled aloud. 
And when they had ceased applauding, thus he spoke unto the crowd: 






ROLLAND BANE. 65 

' ' Doctors, brothers, f ellow-sinncrs of tlie class of seventy-one. 

We have mastered some tougli ' subjects ' and have had some royal fun; 

But, with all our hash and mince-meat, now I think you will agree, 

We have had a splendid winter in the University. 

We will not forget our masters nor the Alma Maters fire. 

Nor the Irish demonstrator whom we know as Pat McGuire. 

Let us not forget each other as we pass from this review. 

But thorugh life as on we journey still this friendship oft renew. 

Let us try to do our duty on whatever battle-ground, 

And subdue the King of Terrors on whatever field he's found. 

I would like to linger longer, biit must take the midnight train, 

So, farewell, and may you prosper till we all shall meet agam." 

Then the boys all gathered round him, grasped him warmly by the hand. 
Hoped he'd have a pleasant journey to his own dear native land. 
Then the old professors urged him for the banquet to remain, 
But he urged most pressing business — begged them not his feet detain. 
Then they pledged his health together right beneath the gas' light, 
Waving then his hat in parting, out he rushed into the night. 

From the college Rolland darted right along the avenue, 
Like a black streak through the darkness to his lodging house he flew. 
Here he found the carriage waiting, and securing coat and grip. 
And a hasty good-bye saying, he began his flying trip. 

At the depot all was bustle, and the clouds were threatening rain ; 

Holland from the carriage leaping quickly found the midnight train. 

All that night the long train rattled, but young Rolland found no sleep ; 

He was thinking of that loved one whose bright eyes were used to weep. 

When the morning sun had risen over Schuylkill's grassy plain, 

Still he clenched his teeth with anger, cursed the slowness of the train. 

On through Allcntown and Reading still it kept its rapid flight. 

Till the roaring Susquehanna broke upon his longing sight. 

" Oh, the villiansl" now said Rolland, as his flashing eyeballs gleam, 

"How I'd like to hurl them headlong in this roaring, rapid stream." 



06 HOLLAND BANE. 

Soon as they had reached Altoona, where they rested at the side, 
Rolland from the train dismounting, telegraphed to Charley Pride : 

** Have a carriage there in waiting ; meet me at the evening train; 
Give me Snow-Drop, fleet as lightning, whether it be shine or rain. 
Get some wraps from Gracy Wilson ' bring the doctor's large steel knife. 
I will rescue Phoebe Rollins, or young King will lose his life." 
To the dining-room he hastened quickly, scanned the bill of fare. 
And securing three good luncheons, placed them in his satchel there. 

On the night before the wedding, in her chamber all alone, 
Phoebe walked the floor in anguish giving to the winds her moan. 
Oft she pulled aside the curtain, long she gazed into the night. 
Wrung her hands and wept in anguish : " Rolland will not come to-night. 
Oh ! my heart will break with sorrow ! Why was Phoebe ever born ? 
Why my body kept in prison ? Why my heart left all forlorn ?" 

' ' Had I died with Mabel Wilson ; could I sleep beside her there 
Then my heart would not be breaking — grief would not my bosom tear. 
Though the sons of men should perish from the earth eternally 
I can never love but Rolland ; he is all the world to me." 

Then she knelt beside her pillow, pouring out her maiden prayer, 
While about her neck and shoulders fell her long and raven hair. 

" Oh, my God ! my God, have mercy! Let my prayer ascend on high I 
Save me from my cruel cousin! Hear! oh hear! an orphan's cry! 
If a virgin's pure devotion to the one dear heart I love. 
Weighs one atom in the balance of the scales they hold above, 
Send my lover to the rescue ere the hour I'm forced to wed; 
Let not vice o'er virtue triumph and profane a marriage-bed!" 

Tlien, as dawned the gray of morning, sunk lier weary head to rest, 
And she dreamed her stricken bosom lay upon her lover's breast. 



ROLLAND BANE. 67 

All was hurry and confusion at the farm of Hiram King, 
Phoebe slept almost till mid-day ; twice for her the bell did ring. 
Then at last came aunt Maria, saying : *' You must now prepare ; 
I must dress you in white satin and put jewels in your hair." 
"Dress me for my grave," said Pha?be, as she from her bed did start, 
** In the dress I wore that evening when young Rolland won my heart. 
For my marriage with my cousin let me wear my mourning suit ; 
Nothing else becomes a maiden who will marry with a brute. 

" Leave me to myself a moment; I am feeling quite unwell ; 
I will not come down to dinner, so you need not ring the bell." 
Then the old maid, slow retiring, tauntingly to this replied : 
"You will change your mind, my darling, when you are my nephew's 
bride." 

Long the maiden sat in silence, in her night robe thinly dressed, 
Gazing on the sun's bright orbit slowly sinking to the west. 

** Can it be my day is dying, thus her little mind ran on, 

Can it be yon sun is setting never more on me to dawn ? 

Can it be the night is coming that shall close my poor blue eyes. 

Never, never more to waken on the earth or azure skies ? 

Will the morrow find me sleeping in the cold and silent grave ? 

And at last will Holland find me when it is too late to save ? 

Will the morrow find me sleeping underneath the willow-tree ? 

Or from out this horrid prison will my lover rescue me ? 

O, my Rolland! my lost Rolland I could I press thy lips once more. 

Oh I how glad I'd leave this prison for yon bright celestial shore 

Could I feel that heart so tender beat once more against my own, 

I could leap from this vile dungeon to that bright eternal, throne. 

O ! my sainted angel mother I in that happy land of rest. 

Can you hear the wail of Phoebe ? hear the groans that rend her breast ? 

Are your arms outstretched to meet me from behind the pearly gate ? 

Will the shining angels greet me ? — for my spirit do they wait ? 

But though life seems all forgotten, and the pangs of death are past, 

I will listen for his footsteps, I will hope on till the last." 



68 ROLLAND BANE. 

Then she robed herself in mourning, and about her neck she tied 
Once her mother's silk white 'kerchief which she gave the day she died. 
"Here's my mother's pocket Bible in the pocket by my side, 
With the record of my birthday and the day that father died. 
This is all I have of mother's which my uncle Hiram King, 
When I left my little cottage, would allow with me to bring. 
Here's my darling lover's picture, which, since he and I did part, 
I have carried in my bosom — worn it close above my heart. 
Here's the precious little jewels, here's the magic golden band; 
Since my darling Rolland gave it, never once has left my hand. 
Here's the subtle little poison ; here's the fatal aconite ; 
I will place beneath my pillow, least the worst should come to-night. 
Now then, Phoebe waits her sentence like the convict in his cell ; 
'Tis the night — the night I've dreaded, darker than the night of hell.'* 

Charley Pride received the message, and his heart just leaped for joy, 
And to hasten Rolland's footsteps all his wits he did employ. 
Snow-Drop soon was hitched and waiting, and a dozen shawls and wraps 
From fair Gracy's hand receiving, placed within the carriage straps. 
"Now, then, Charley, if he rescues Phoebe from the hand of King, 
Holland shall the dear, sweet creature straight to papa's mansion bring. 
I am almost wild to see her, for since she has gone away, 
I have never had a letter, though Pve written every day. 
I just know she's almost crazy on that horrid barren farm ; 
Tell them I'll have supper ready and will have the parlor warm." 
Then a long knife, sharp and shining, Charley placed beneath the seat. 
And he started for the depot that he might young Holland meet. 

Now the wedding guests assembled at the house where Phcebe stayed, 
And upon the dining-table now the shining cloth was laid. 
Then the old clock rang out seven, and the wedding hour is eight, 
Still did Phoebe, pleading illness, ask her bridal guests to wait. 
She was sitting by the window with her head and ear inclined. 
Patiently she waited, listening to each sound made by the wind. 

" Come, my girl, the guests are waiting, and the pastor. Reverend Drew, 
I will give you thirty minutes, then my son will call for you." 



ROLLAND BANE. 69 

At these words from uncle Hiram, Phoebe scarce suppressed a cry ; 
Still she waited, yet she listened — now the moon is iii the sk)^ 

"Now, then, James," said uncle Hiram, " See you fasten every door. 
Lock each entrance to my dwelliag till the ceremony's o'er." 

When the long train at Altoona had let loose her iron brakes, 
Up the mountain like a serpent slowly now its course it takes ; 
Rushing through the mountain tunnel, passing Johnstown in its flight. 
Soon they crossed the chestnut ridges, and the sun was out of sight. 
Though 'twas three long lonely hours since they left Altoona town, 
Without stop or interruption still the long train thundered on. 

Like a wild beast caged and fretting, Rolland now walked to and fro ; 
Stand he could not, sit he dare not ; so he stUl kept on the go. 
Now he clenched his teeth in anger, then he wrung his fevered hands ; 
Then his finger nails still deeper pressed within his aching palms. 
Oft he looked at his repeater, marked the time by fading light, 
Like a sentinal he wandered or patrolman in the night ; 
Then addressed the old conductor, "I've a friend in Riverdale 
Who has called me to her bedside o'er the winding iron rail. 
If you'll run beyond your schedule now toward the setting sun, 
Here's a crown for every minute to reward the risk you run." 

As the old conductor Simon saw the shining golden coin, 
Two hard pulls he gave the bell-rope and the long train thundered on. 
Dust and leaves and broken branches whirled in eddies o'er the mead 
As towards the hazel mountains now they rushed with lightning speed. 
As they cross the Hills of Hazel through the glen of Brady fly. 
Darkness settled down upon them and the moon rose in the sky. 
Then they crossed the Allegheny, shining like a thread of light, 
And be3^ond the crystal river Riverdale appeared in sight. 
Rolland pressed the golden eagles in the old conductor's hand, 
And upon the forward platform then he took his anxious stand. 
Then the engineer's whistle shrieked till many cheeks grew pale. 
As the long train, rocking, smoking, bounded into Riverdale. 



70 BOLLAND BANE. 

Rollaud sprang upon the platform as the long tram bounded in, 
And he found the carriage waiting — found a friend to welcome him. 
"Now then, Charley, to the country! Let the horses' hoofs resound. 
See the feet of Snow-Drop flying— better never spurned the ground." 

Phoebe still sat at the window in the home of Hiram King, 

To each sound her ear attentive and her eyes on Rolland's ring. 

Oft she thought she heard his footsteps, and with sudden breath would 

start. 
Then would sink back disappointed, press her small hand to her heart. 

Then the chamber door opened, and there stood her cousin Jim, 
In a suit of sable broadcloth and a waistcoat neat and trim. 
And her old maid aunt Maria walking closely by his side. 
Said : "Now hustle up, my lady, you're to be my nephew's bride." 

"Wait a little longer, cousin, I am feeling very ill ; 
Give me fifteen minutes longer; just my humor to fulfill." 

" Come, now, Phoebe," said her cousin, speaking firm and rather gruff, 
" Well you know the hour appointed, I have waited long enough. 
Long below my guests have waited, and the supper has been got ; 
I must now insist you follow whether you prefer or not." 
Then her aunt and brutish cousin raised her up from off the chair, 
Took her over to the landing, helped her slowly down the stair, 
Led her through the open parlor, stopped beneath the gas jet's light, 
As old Hiram, stepping forward, took his stand upon the right. 

Phoebe trembled like an aspen, and her lips grew deathly pale, 

And 'twas feared by all assembled that her feeble strength would fail. 

Then the pastor slowl}'- rising, made a very short collect, 

Said these two now should be married — asked if any did object. 

Look at Phcebe ! See her starting ! What strange sound attracts her ear ? 
See her raise her hand and listen ! Wliat should now the maiden hear ? 



HOLLAND BANE. 71 

Crash ! The parlor window breaking, tumbles in upon the floor, 
Like a magazine exploding or the cannon's awful roar. 
Like a fierce Nubian lion Holland leaped among the crowd; 
Fire ! the crack of his revolver fearful now rings long and loud. 
Foaming like a wounded tiger, Rolland on the villains fell, 
Or a bull in the arena when he hears the Spanish yell. 

" I have found you ! O, you hell hounds ! I will brand your cursed brow 
No weak maiden hands are on you! Rolland Bane has got you now!" 
Then he sprang upon the uncle with a loud and savage roar, 
Falling as if struck by lightning, Hiram rolled upon the floor. 
Turning quick lie pushed the pastor right against the aged belle, 
Back she tumbled on the floor, and the pastor on her fell. 
Struck with terror, all the people from the room had fled away, 
While fair Phoebe, sinking forward, prone upon the carpet lay. 
With one blow, that loud resounded like the spiteful pistol's crack. 
Now he struck the groom prospective — laid him flat upon his back. 
Drawing then a long white dagger, like a serpent's tongue it gleamed, 
Like a vice he seized his juglar, and in piercing tones he screamed : 
"Now then, King! Give up my letters ! O, you blacker fiend than hell! 
Or your blood will stain this dagger quicker than it takes to tell." * 

" Spare my life !" [young King now pleaded. " Aunt Maria, bring them 

forth ; 
You can have the maiden with them ; take them both for all they're 

worth." 
Old Maria took the letters from a case behind the door. 
And with grim and spiteful curses, threw them on the velvet floor. 

Then said Holland, "You arch devil! You'll jet hear from Rolland 

Bane," 
As he threw the knife and letters through another window pane ; 
Then he grasped the prostrate maiden, raised her up from oflt the floor, 
Sprang right through the open window, as her fainting form he bore ; 
Placed her in the carriage waiting which was kept by Charley Pride, 
Then upon the cushion mounting, took a seat close by her side. 



72 HOLLAND BANE. 

" Here's your letters," then said Charley ; "fly now, Rolland, for your life! 
I will foil your mad pursuers. Leave with me the steely knife !" 

Snow-Drop felt the lash behind him, and he left the farm behind, 
While along the country highway now he darted like the wind. 
With the chilly air of evening Phcebe from her swoon came to, 
Then about her long-lost lover both her slender arms she threw. 
When they reached the clover meadow, Rolland checked the horse's pace, 
Clasped poor Phoebe to his bosom in one long and warm embrace. 
"Saved ! I'm saved! my darling Kolland!" now the jojrful maiden cried, 
While he wrapped the shawls about her, clasped her closer to his side. 
Haste! oh, hasten ! now, dear Rolland, lest my uncle thee pursue; 
Stop not to explain your coming till New Eden breaks to view." 

Like a white streak in the darkness Snow-Drop's form was seen to fly, 
Or a hissing shell of battle o'er the dark and midnight sky. 
On they flew o'er hills and valleys, bearing down the gravel way, 
While the stars, like little candles, and the moon did light their way. 
"Forty miles," at last cried Rolland, "and the day begins to dawn." 
Still the white horse, never flagging, like an engine thundered on; 
From his nostrils, w^idely streaming, two white clouds of steam arose. 
As from off the flanks and shoulders mist of perspiration goes. 
Faintly now the gray of morning shows upon the eastern hills. 
And the lark from out the meadow all the air with music fills. 
Hark ! the rooster's silver clarion swells upon the morning breeze! 
And the busy black birds, waking, sing among the maple trees. 
Hear the chatter of the chickens as their drowsy wings they flap. 
And the loud bow-wow of Rover, waking from his morning nap. 
See the twinkling stars of midnight fade before the coming light. 
As the moon that lit their journey now had sunken out of sight. ^ 
See above the hills of clover streaks of gold and purple break 
As the old and sturdy farmers from their slumbers now awake; 
See that ra}^ of golden sunlight gilding now the small church spire, 
And the sun on the horizon rising from a bed of fire. 
They could smell the clover blossoms, and could hear the hum of bees, 



HOLLAND BANE. T8 

And could see the blue smoke curling from the homes among the trees. 
Still the lovers, never halting on their journey, still proceed. 
Flying past the dewy meadows, on still rushed the tireless steed. 

Now the waters of a brooklet, sparkling, dash across the way, 
And on one side lay a meadow with a stack of clover hay. 
On the other side were shade trees, and a grassy lawn was found, 
And a spring of pure fresh water gurgling from beneath the ground. 
Here they lingered for an hour, turned the horse loose in the mead, 
Where he got some hay and water to supply his present need. 

Now the lovers from the carriage sought the shade within the grove, 
But were both too much exhausted to converse or think of love. 

RoUand then from out his satchel drew a lunch of modest size, 
Which, when opened up to daylight, opened up the maiden's eyes. 
There were rolls and cutlets sandwiched, and some pies and oysters fine, 
With some fruits, as pear and orange, and a bottle of old wine, 
As the girl was almost starving, everything seemed fresh and sweet ; 
Even love will faint and languish without something good to eat. 
Then they ate their morning luncheon at the dawning of the day. 
And they got some sparkling water from the spring beside the wa}^ 

When the doctor with the maiden from the farm had taken flight, 
Charley Pride with foxy caution looked about both left and right, 
Cut the saddle girths and traces in the twinkle of an eye. 
Then toward the Alleghenj^ like a gray hound he did fly. 

Hiram thought to overtake them, so he quickly rushed around, 

Tried to mount the steed in waiting, when he tumbled to the ground ; 

And he cut so bad a figure that the guests all laughed with mirth. 

"Curse the luck," said Hiram, rising, "some one's cut the saddle girth." 

Then he thought he'd take a buggy ; so he got behind the bay, 

But the horse, without the buggy, quickly took a walk away. 

"Oh! the villians!" now said Hiram, while the guests concealed their 

faces, 
"Catch that horse, there, Aunt Maria. Some one's cut the leather trace?." 



74 ROLL AND BANE. 

Then the merry guests, all laughing, said he'd better "let her slide." 
Said they'd not refuse a supper with a groom without a bride " 

Then old Hiram curbed his anger, though 'twas much against his will, 

Saying they might have the table and each one might eat his fill. 

For himself and his son Jimmy they would not the guests surprise, 

They would soak their heads in camphor and bandage up their eyes. 

Then the merry guests were seated, though it seemed small recompense, 

And they had a wedding supper at old Hiram King's expense. 

Then the pastor asked a blessing, asking God to bless the bride, 

And returning thanks for supper which his bounty had supplied. 

" Curse the bride I" said old Maria, springing quick upon her feet; 

" Well then, may God bless the supper!" said the pastor. "Let us eat." 

Aunt Maria, like a filly, fell in love with Pastor Drew, 

And about the supper-table like a fairy thing she flew. 

"^Yon't 3^ou have some apple-dumpling, or a turkey leg or two? 

Won't you have have some cake or coffee? oh! now do, dear Mr. Drew!'' 

As she flew around the table, she the soup tureen let fall, 

Step'ed upon the tail of Tabby which let out a piercing squall. 

Then she hastened to the side-board where she quick secured some more 

But, returning, tripped on Rover, tumbled headlong to the floor; 

Asked the guests when supper's over if they all had had enough. 

Then she passed apast the pastor, passed around her box of snuff; 

Then at last the guests retiring, said they all enjoyed the "things," 

When the lights had been extinguished quiet reigned at farmer King's. 

After breakfast at the brooklet at the dawning of the day, 
Over hills and fertile valleys on the lovers took their way. 
Now they meet the sturdy farmer going forth to plant bis corn, 
And within the busy barn-yard hear tlie rooster's silver horn. 
Still the wide road, like a river, disappeared beneath the wheels, 
And the dust in smoky eddies flew beneath the horse's heels. 
Then they meet the merry cliildren who to school are on their way, 
AVith their books and dinner satchels, loving study less than play. 



ROLLAND BANE. 75 

When the sun rose high in lieaven, sending down its mellow light, 
Still the white horse, foaming, panting, onward kept his eagle flight. 
" Eighty miles," now shouted Holland, "and New Eden breaks to view; 
Here we'll stop securely, Phoebe; none will dare our steps pursue." 

Now, the village of New Eden stands within a valley wide. 

Groves of chestnut, oak and maple, stretching far on either side; 

And a brooklet, pure and limpid, pours its flood of silver light 

Over mossy rocks and ledges as it tumbles in its flight. 

And the speckled trout and sun fish sport within the crystal stream, 

And the peach and apple blossoms in the sunlight richly gleam, 

Snow-Drop, like a steaming cauldron, now had reached the brooklet 

banks, 
Blood was from his nostrils dropping, foam w^as flying from his flanks. 
Then more slowly they proceeded till they reached the Grand Hotel. 
" Noble horse !" said Rolland, halting, " Snow-Drop thou hast served us 

well." 

Then spoke Rolland to the hostler, '* Give the white horse special care, 

Cover up his steaming loins and protect him from the air ; 

After he is dry and rested, give him water, have him fed ; 

And to-night, before you leave him, see he has a good soft bed." 

Then he spoke unto the landlord, ' ' Please a suite of rooms prepare ; 
We are travellers from a journey, each as hungry as a bear. 
Set us up a special dinner, and before the hour for tea 
Call the pastor of the village, that we two may married be. 
Stop not for expense or trouble, I will see you get your pay. 
Gather in the choicest flowers, make your parlor light as day." 
Brushing off the dust of travel, getting now their first square meal 
Since the thrilling night's adventure, made them both much better feel. 

In their rooms, then, after dinner, Holland had sat down to rest. 
Free at last with heart o'er flowing, Phoebe fell upon his breast. 
Long they sat in silence weeping, folded to each others breast. 
With their hearts and lips caressing, joy tliat could not be expressed. 



76 HOLLAND BANE. 

There are moments, rapture thrilling, when the voice will not be heard ; 
Each attempt to speak is smothered, one can utter not a word. li 

There are times, the heart o'erflowing, silent lies the tongue and dumb, 
Rapture strikes the speaker speechless and the words refuse to come. 

When the warm and pent-up feelings now were freely given vent, 
By a superhuman effort then the vocal chords relent. 
Phoebe's voice first broke the silence, though the chords were illy strung'^ 
She unclasped her lips a moment and her silence found a tongue. 

" Oh I my long-lost lover Holland ! "What would now have been my fate 

Had you not come to my rescue, had you been one moment late ! 

Had you not broke through my prison, snatched me from its poisoB 

breath, 
Now my pulse had ceased its beating and my heart been cold in death 
Had you failed to force an entrance, snatch me from that prison hell, 
Now these lips were cold and lifeless, like the frosty snows that fell. 
But I knew you'd come, dear Rolland, though my dreams I can't recallj 
And I listened for your footsteps till I heard the window fall. 
How could cousin be so cruel as your letters steal away. 
Like a bird I was in prison all the long, long winter day. 
Oh ! what wrongs my heart has suffered, and the rose has left my cheek 
Long my heart was crushed and bleeding, sorrows far too great to speak 
But my bitter night is over and the sun is in my skies. 
And I read a world of pleasure in my darling lover's eyes." 

"Phoebe, darling I" now spoke Holland, "love like mine always stands, 
And will reach the one beloved through a thousand iron bands. 
Had your prison been a castle walled about with granite rock, 
I'd have torn them all asunder like the mighty earthquake's shock. 
Had your walls been walls of iron, with a marble wall between, 
Right beneath my arm they'd crumbled like the fragile window screen. 
What I love I'll not surrender, and no arm shall separate. 
Till I meet the final summons — fall before the hand of fate. 

Now, my dear, I'll call a servant who your dressing maid will be ; 
We'll be married in the parlor just before the hour for tea. 



HOLLAND BANE. 77 

I will leave you now, dear Phoebe, for a walk about the town, 
And when everything is ready I will come and lead you down. 

Then he bribed the landlord's daughter to become her dressing maid, 
And sent up the packs and parcels which within the buggy laid. 
Then a wreath of orange blossoms and some rose-buds very rare 
Were sent up to deck her bosom and enrich her silken hair. 

" Here's a package," then said Phoebe, " which unopened yet remains. 
Let us cut the strings now, Lucy, and we'll see what it contains. 
Gracious me ! here lies my satin with its colors rich and warm. 
No I I left my cream-white satin in my room at uncle's farm. 
Here's a card upon the corslet, " This from Gracy Wilson came ; 
Hope you'll wear it, dearest Phoebe, when your name is Mrs. Bane." 
" Oh ! that angel girl !" said Phoebe, "just to think she'd think of me, 
What great favor, dearest Gracy, have I ever done for thee ?" 

Phoebe was arrayed in satin which so much was like her own, 
And with orange flowers and jewels like the sun at noonday shone. 

Now about the hotel parlor flowers in great profusion lay, 
And the lamps and chandeliers made the scene as bright as day. 
Then arrived the village pastor, who was known as Reverend Quinn, 
And the landlord's merry family with the servants gathered in. 

Rolland now the stairs ascended to the hall on second floor. 
Sought the room where Phoebe lingered, gently rapped upon the door. 
Lucy Palmer, young and pretty, quickly set the portal wide ; 
Stepping lightl}^ o'er the threshold, Rolland stood by Phoebe's side. 

"O my jewel!" shouted Rolland, " from whence came your satin white ? 

I did surely think to And you in the dress you wore last night." 

Then he pressed her to his bosom, with a kiss so warm and sweet — 

So electric, so magnetic, that it raised her off her feet. 

"Well, we'll go and see the preacher, then my darling can explain 

Where she got that milk-white satin when she has exchanged her name." 



78 HOLLAND BANE. 

They descended to the parlor, where the magic knot was tied, 
And brave Rolland, as it should be, to his bosom clasped his bride. 
Then the pastor greeted Phoebe, and the doctor's hand he wrung, 
Said they were a youthful couple, said they were beginning young. 
Then spoke little Lucy Palmer, said she didn't recollect. 
Thought the pastor had omitted, *' Are there any that object." 
Then the landlord, archly smiling, "And I did not hear him say 
AYhen he was addressing Phoebe, ' Will you honor and ohey.' " 
Then a general greeting followed to the happy wedded pair, 
And they all admired the beauty of the bride so young and fair. 
Then they all went out to supper when the supper-bell did ring, 
Where a darkey on the banjo played and danced the Highland fling. 
After supper they had dancing, in which all the servants join, 
And the doctor gave the servants all a shining silver coin. 
Then as late the hours were growing, and the moon was out of sight, 
Rolland led the gentle Phoebe to her chamber warm and bright. 

The tired lovers slept (?) next day 'till near the hour of noon. 

When they appeared Joe Palmer asked how they could rise so soon I 

"When Susan Jane and Igot hitched, 'twas sometime in the fall, 

We felt so sleepy all next day we did'nt rise at all. 

And when at last we did awake 'twas after eight p. m. , 

So we concluded 'twas too late to go to supper then. 

But when the breakfast bell did ring, and morning came around, 

* You bet your life ' we were on hand and quickly hustled down. 

We felt a little hungry, then — a little weak perchance, 

So we just ordered up the hash, and ate four meals at once. 

'■'■ Alle rechtP'' said Holland, '■'■IchfersUhe! just bring enough for four, 
And if we find 'tis nichtgenug, we'll order up some more." 

These blunt remarks between the men now caused the bride to blush ; 
She twitched lier husband by the sleeve, and said that lie should hush. 

Then Mrs. Palmer sliowed old Joe the soft end of the broom, 

And chased him clean across the hall, out through the dining-room. 



HOLLAND BANE. 7i^ 

" That's just the way I treat my man, you see, now, Mrs. Bane; 
So if you take my sage advice you'll treat yours just the same." 

The lovers, after dinner, stroll along the glassy stream, 

And see the speckled trout at play and hear the pea fowl scream ; 

They hear the drowsy hum of bees beneath the maple shade, 

And see within the busy hive the honey which they made. 

They snuff the apple blossoms' scent, the perfume of the rose, 

And catch the fragrance from the peach across the brook that grows. 

The birds sing gaily in the trees, and build their nests on high ; 

The swallows twitter 'neath the eaves and skim the bright blue sky. 

The humming-bird, with buzzing wings, seems never more to rest ; 

The turtle doves now woo their loves, the robin plumes its breast. 

The honey-suckle opens wide, and blooms the rich, red rose ; 

The pink and pansy spread their leaves, iae sweet carnation blows ; 

The morning-glory, with its cups, seems up the oak to climb, 

And from the low veranda trails the fragrant jessamine. 

A mellow, dreamy, holy calm is resting on the scene, 

And under all, kind nature spreads a carpet rich and green. 

To them nature seems so sweet, the skies so pure and blue, 
That Eden's bowers of ancient days seems breaking to their view. 
It seemed that heaven had come down through all the fragrant air 
And angels tuned their golden harps to dwell among them there. 
Oh ! hours of more than heavenly bliss when two fond hearts unite, 
And view the birth of rosy spring beneath the sun's warm light ; 
These are the days, the golden days, that all too soon are past. 
Too full of love, too full of bliss, too full of joy to last. 

They now retrace their happy walk, and as they stroll along 

They hear the low of distant herds, they hear the ploughman's song ; 

They see the sun of early spring in golden glory set, 

And hear the sacred evening chimes from the tall minaret. 



80 ROLL AND BANE. 

Then Phoebe told him all that passed since he had left her side, 
How she had been an orpliau left, and how her mother died ; 
About her long imprisonment within her uncle's liome, 
And how he wouldn't let a friend within her presence come ; 
Of how his letters failed her hand — of all her hopes and fears ; 
For twent}'' long and anxious weeks which seemed like twenty years ; 
Of how poor Mrs. Wilson mourned who lived in Eidlewild, 
And died at last of broken heart and sleeps beside her child. 

Then Rolland told her all that he had seen when far away, 

How mother and her child to save he plunged within the bay ; 

How to his room in the hotel he saw a robber come, 

And caught him in the hall below as he essaj^ed to run ; 

How to the college in disguise her cousin Harry came ; 

And how he failed to know the man though rooming with the same ; 

How Mabel Wilson's sacred form was stole from out the tomb, 

Brought all the way from Eidlewild to the dissecting room ; 

How ignorant he bought her corpse to place it 'neath his knife, 

And how, when Harry saw her face, he had destroyed his life. 

Of all the fun with Pat McGuire, of where he slept and ate ; 

Of how he made the farewell speech when he did graduate ; 

Of how, as when her letters came, they drove him near insane ; 

Of how he took the midnight train and o'er the mountain came ; 

Of how he reached her uncle's house through doctor Wilson's groom 

Of how he burst the window in and bore her from the room. 

Now, Mrs. Bane had much to say the supper to prolong, 
And in the parlor after tea she sang a haj^py song ; 
And then alone within their rooms the evening hours were spent. 
Where Rolland showed his little wife the letters which he sent. 

Then Phoebe said the cream-white silk from Gracy Wilson came. 
Who said she hoped Pd wear tlie dress when I was Mrs. Bane, 
She said the past had been so dark, the future now was bright, 
The lover's in each other arms were folded for the night. 



HOLLAND BANE. 81 

Thus they beguiled the days and night's, with nothing to annoy, 

Each morning brought some bliss unfound, each evening some new joy. 

At last spoke Phoebe, "Rolland, dear, 'tis twenty-first of May. 

I find that I am twenty-one ; this is my natal day. 

I now can claim my little home, the cottage I love most, 

And from my uncle Hiram King recover all I los-t." 

"Yes, Phoebe dear, my angel wife, my precious little queen ; 
But first we'll go and see my folks who live in Hazeldeen. 
I find, upon reflection, now 'tis three years and a day 
Since I have left my father's house, since I have been away. 
So on to-morrow we'll prepare to leave New Eden's bowers, 
Where all our joy has been complete, the home of bees and flowers. 
My mother lives toward the south, full forty miles or more, 
And with the doctor's faithful horse we'll drive the journey o'er ; 
We'll stop with them upon the farm two evenings and a day, 
And then toward fair Riverdale we'll take our homeward way." 

Next morning, after Phoebe left the farm of Hiram King, 
Old Hiram to repair his house a carpenter did bring. 
*' Now every penny that it costs," said Hiram in his hate, 
"Pll charge it up to Phoebe's house, will take from her estate; 
If I can only sell the house before the month is spent. 
And get the money in my purse, she'll never get a cent. 
So now then, Jimmy, go to town and see old Henry Clay, 
And advertise the house for sale just three weeks from to-day." 

"It just now strikes me, brother Hi," said old Maria King, 

' ' That that there naughty girl was born one rainy day in spring, 

I can't remember just the time, I can't recall the day, 

But feel quite certain she was born about the last of May. 

'Twas in the j'^ear of fifty then, for old Zach Taylor run 

For president the fall before, and I was thirty-one. 

So, don't you see, that should you wait till she her birthday gains, 

You must deliver up the house, with all that it contains ; 

And you will never get a cent for all your care and pains. 



83 HOLLAND BANE. 

Now hasten, Jimmy, to the town and have the day quick set, 
We'll sell the house and furniture and beat that hussy yet." 

Then Jimmy King went quick to town and saw old Henry Clay, 
And had the place put up for sale on twenty-sixth of May. 

Now Snow-Drop, with his head erect, stood near the Grand Hotel, 
And Rolland and his pretty wife prepared to say farewell. 
To Lucy now fair Phcebe gave a necklace rich and fine. 
And Rolland gave the servants all a glass of sparkling wine. 
They mounted in the buggy then, and waved a last adieu, 
*, And Lucy o'er the carriage wheels a velvet slipper threw. 

It was a bright and balmy morn when Rolland with his bride 

Set out from Eden's fairy town to Hazeldeen to ride. 

The doctor wore his broad-cloth suit, with gloves and new silk tile, 

While Phoebe wore her satin white, with hat of modern style. 

The white horse snuffed the dewy breeze and tossed his head on high, 

The birds sang gaily in the trees, the ring doves hovered nigh ; 

The birds, the flowers, the equipage, the sun and balmy time, 

Seemed all to know with one accord that love was in its prime. 

The twilight fell as softly now on mountain hill and moor, 
As on that eve when Rolland Bane had left his mother's door. 
Old Mrs. Bane had just returned from the milking of the cow, 
And Joe and Henry with the team were coming from the plow ; 
The chickens all had gone to roost upon the cherry tree, 
And Rover lay upon the porch as quiet as could be ; 
While Sam and Willie, to small boys, were mending Rover's yoke. 
And old man Bane had just sat down to take a quiet smoke ; 
While baby Frank, the youngest child, was sitting on his knee, 
And Mary and her sister Jane were busy getting tea. 

"I had a funny dream last night," now spoke old mother Baue ; 
" I thought I saw our oldest sou a coming down the lane. 



ROLLAND BANE. 83 

He drove a horse as white as milk, and at the horse's heels 

A carriage came as black as silk, with bright and shining wheels ; 

And it did seem a lady fair was sitting by his side, 

I think he said, 'Now, mother dear, this is your Holland's bride."* 

*'0h, hush!" said Mr. Joseph Bane, "you're always telling dreams; 
To lay awake and dream at night to me quite foolish seems ; 
I guess that on the raging seas our Rolland's tale is told, 
Or else to far Australia's hills he's gone in search of gold.'* 

" Say, mother," now called Henry Bane, "right up the lane I see 
Our preacher and his gay young wife a coming here for tea.'* 

Old mother Bane sat down the pail. "Why that is a surprise,'* 

And out she walked upon the porch with specks upon her eyes. 

Then father Bane came walking out, "Why, no ; that's farmer Jones. 

He's got a new silk hat, I see, and that white horse he owns. 

He's getting awful stylish now that same young farmer is. 

I think he'd better quit the farm and learn some other biz." 

Now Mary and her sister Jane had come right out to see 

Who might be coming to their house, and yet so stylish be. 

"Now, surely," spoke old Mrs. Bane, "if that same crowd don't seem 

The very vision that I saw — fulfillment of my dream." 

Now Holland had come pretty close, and knowing they were seen 
He waved his hat and cried aloud, " Hurrah for Hazeldeen !" 

"ORolland! RoUand! long lost boy !" the joyful mother cried. 
"My boy is coming home at last, and bringing home his bride. 
Come, Mary, hurry up the tea ! Jane put away the cream 1 
Here, Sam and Willie, wash your hands and wipe your faces clean." 

Old father Bane was so confused he let the baby fall. 
And Henry stepped upon the cat and both began to squall I 



84 ROLLAND BANE. 

Then Rover, who for many years their sentinel had been, 
Would let no stranger enter there without consulting him 1 
So down the garden-walk he ran and uttered his bow-wow I 
While right before the garden-gate the white horse halted now. 

*' Hello ! old Rover, don't you know your former master's voice? 
And does my coming home again not cause you to rejoice ? " 
Then RoUand from the carriage leaped and' stood upon the sand. 
As mother Bane threw wide the gate and grasped him by the hand. 

She threw her arms about his neck and wrung his welcome hand, 
While tears of joy rolled down her cheeks and fell upon the sand. 
She told him he was welcome home a dozen times or more, 
And asked him why he had not come a year or two before. 

Now Phoebe in the carriage sat and saw their warm embrace. 
While many tears suffused her eyes and wet her sad, sweet face. 
Then RoUand, quickly turning round, helped Phoebe to alight. 
Her face as sweet as angel smiles, her garments just as bright. 
"Now, Phoebe, here's the angel one to whom I owe my life ; 
This is my mother, Mrs. Bane, and this my angel wife.'* 

" My husband's mother! " Phoebe cried, "and wept upon her breast. 
" O may you be my mother too ! for mine is at rest." 

"My Rolland's wife cannot but be a woman pure and mild. 

Yes, I will be your mother, dear, and you shall be my child.'* 

Then Rolland grasped his father's hand, and kissed him too, and then 

He introduced his little wife, who kissed him once again. 

" My husband's father ! can it be my joy has just begun ? 

Then you will be my father, too, for father I have none." 

Then father Bane wept o*er them both. "You have your heart's desire, 
For you shall be my daughter too, and I will be your sire," 



HOLLAND BANE. 85 

Then spoke the aged mother, " Come! come Henry, Sam and Joe, 
Come Willie, Mar}^, Sarah Jane, and bring the baby too ! 
Come kiss your brother and his wife who many miles have come ; 
We all will have a happy time and make them welcome home." 
Then Phoebe kissed the boys and girls, and baby ten times o'er, 
And Holland asked, when it was done, if there were any more. 
They all went in to supper then, and Mary took their coats, 
While Joseph put away the horse and gave him hay and oats. 

Then spake fair Phoebe after tea, while twitching Mary's curls, 

" The Doctor said I'd be surprised at all the boys and girls. 

I never knew a brother's love; no sister on me smiled. 

My childhood knew no play-mate dear ; I was an only child. 

"Why, doctor who?" said mother Bane, "you don't mean Doctor Wood." 

" My husband here, dear mother Bane; I thought you understood." 

They all seemed paralyzed at once, and asked him to explain 

How one that was a farmer's boy could now be Doctor Bane. 

Then all the family seated were around the fireside, 

While Rolland told them where he'd been and how he got his bride ; 

Of all the many up's and down's in his eventful life ; 

Of how he came to graduate and where he got his wife. 

Then Henry played the violin and Mary sang a song, 

And all the boys, with one accord, the jubilee prolong ; 

And when the hours were growing late and half the night was spent. 

Then Phoebe sang her plaintive song and straight to bed they went. 

Next day spent Rolland with the boy's a-looking o'er the farm. 
And Henry showed him all the sheep with wool so soft and warm; 
The horses, pigs, and cows and calves were passed in slow review, 
While apples had to be admired, and corn and pumpkins too. 

The little girls within tlie house showed Phoebe all their toys. 
And mother Bane showed how she knit the stockings for the boys? 



86 HOLLAND BANE. 

She showed the quilts and counterpanes which her own hands had made, 

Then gave to Phoebe two fine quilts of colors every shade ; 

She showed the turkeys, chickens, geese, and all the pretty flowers, 

And through the garden then they stroll to pass the happy hours. 

At last the hazy twilight fell and darkness came again, 

And all were gathered round the fire where joy and mirth did reign. 

Then Rolland spoke. " 'Tis nineteen days since we have married been, 

And with my bride to-morrow morn we leave fair Hazeldeen ; 

'Tis eighty long and hilly miles from here to Riverdale, 

And we must go by horse and wheels and not by iron rail. 

We'll drive by day, we'll rest by night, and when the twilight fades, 

Upon the twenty-sixth of May we'll reach the river glades." 

" Oh, stay with us a week or two," said Mrs. Mary Bane ; 
" 'Tis but a day since you have come, and now you go again." 

Then Phoebe spake, " Yes, mother Bane, your pardon much I crave, 

But I would see my cottage home and visit mother's grave ; 

But just as soon as we are lodged within my cottage home, 

I wish you all, both old and young, to Riverdale to come." 

" Yes," Rolland said, "just take the team and bring them every one, 

'Twill be a pleasant little ride, and you'll have lots of fun." 

Then all retired for the night and when the morning came, 
The faithful Snow-Drop stood again within the sandy lane. 
Then Phoebe gave to every child a silver piece to hold. 
And Rolland to his parents gave two shining bits of gold ; 

And when they all had kissed good-by with many hopes to meet, 
Then Henry threw an old horse-shoe right o'er the buggy seat. 
The birds were singing sweet and gay when Rolland with his queen 
Set out upon his homeward ride from happy Hazeldeen. 

Now Henry Clay had advertised the sale both far and wide, 
And sent a bill full eighteen miles to little Sunny Side. 



ROLLAND BANE. 8*7 

When Gracy Wilson saw the bills tacked up ivbout the town, 

She quickly sought her father's side and begged him pull them down. 

"Oh, no " said Doctor Wilson then, " that may I never do. 

If Henry Clay has been employed he'll try and push it through. 

But I will see the sheriff, dear, before the time of sale, 

And think I'll have the whole King crowd brought up and put in jail. 

But if I fail in this, why then I'll take a thousand pounds, 

And for poor Pha?be I will buy the cottage and the grounds." 

'* Oh ! papa, you'r so very good," the joyful maiden cries, 

And kissed him twenty times or more while tears suffused her eyes. 

" Then when our Rolland comes again with Phcebe as his bride, 

She'll have her home just as it was before her mother died." 

The twenty-sixth of May arrived, and all the Kings had come 
Down to the sale at Riverdale to sell the cottage home ; 
A hundred farmers, more or less, and many in the town. 
Had gathered at the little house, and waiting stood around. 

Now Rolland with his little wife had travelled all one day, 
And stopping over night to rest again were on their way. 
When shone the sun on hill and vale, and close to noon it drew, 
The tavern sign at Sunny Side broke full upon their view. 

Then Rolland spake : "One meal we'll take at Sunny Side to-day. 

And feed the horse, and then of course we homeward take our way." 

Then up he drove to Sunny Side, and stopped before the door 

Of an old-fashioned tavern stand and dusty country store; 

But as he walked toward the well to get a wooden pail. 

His quick eye fell upon a bill " Administration Sale ! " 

"Estate of Fanny Rollins " too, " who lived in Riverdale " 

" At public auction to be sold at two o'clock to-day." 

He saw the name of Hiram King, the name of Henry Clay. 

" My God !" cried Rolland, pale with rage, as he the pail let drop. 
" 'Tis eighteen miles to Riverdale ; we have no time to stop. 



88 HOLLAND BANE. 

We've starved, dear Plicebe, once before two evenings and a day, 

And I would starve another month to beat old Henry Clay." 

*' O Holland, haste ! my little home ! how can I bear to see J 

It sacrificed by Hiram King, as it is sure to be ! " 

Quick Rolland mounted by her side. " Now, Snow-Drop, do your best. 

If Riverdale you reach in time, you'll have a month to rest." 

The horse pricked up his knowing ears and looked around behind. 

And that dumb creature seemed to say: "There's something in the 

wind." 
He needed not a second word, but right away did bound, 
With both ears pointing to the rear and belly to the ground. 
Like rapids now behind the wheels the road did seem to fly. 
The horse seemed like a meteor descending from the sky. 

'Twas verging close to two o'clock ; the auctioneer with pride 
Now stood before the cottage door with Hiram by his side ; 
While Jimmy and the old maid aunt were in the cottage hid, 
And looking o'er the furniture and talking how they'd bid. 

Like auctioneers, old Henry Clay was noted far and wide 

For oratorical display and one that never lied ; 

So taking off his old white hat, he rang his bell quite loud. 

Then mounting on a wooden bench he thus addressed the crowd : 

"My friends and fellow-citizens of this great Riverdale, 

As you have seen my bills announce, this cottage is for sale. 

With everything, both small and great, which round about it stands; 

And all the household furniture which Hiram King commands. 

My dear friend Hiram King, you know, is the execute, 

And just as honest, good and kind as any man can be. 

This cottage, as you all do know, (well, may be then you don't), 

Was built of sacred cedar trees from Leb'non's holy mount. 

Beneath the stone foundation lies (as I have oft been told) 

A thousand pounds in silver coin, a thousand pounds in gold. 



HOLLAND BANE. 89 

This city (as you all can see) is growing more and more. 

And soon the ships from o'er the sea will pass right b}^ this door. 

The Capitol at Washington is going to move out West, 

And you can bet your bottom D 'twill in this valley rest. 

And this in future years will be the White House great and grand, 

And on the corner 'cross the way the Capitol will stand. 

So now don't all you speak at once ; I'll take no penny bids. 

Who wants the cottage ? who'll bid first ? (put out them noisy kids I ") 

Just then a white horse, like the wind, came up the thoroughfare; 
The foam was flying from his flanks like feathers through the air. 
Young Rolland stood upon his feet, his hat he waved on high, 
And from the buggy where he stood was heard the startling cry : 

"Hold on, there, Henry Clay ! hold on! you're rather premature. 

If you do sell my wife's estate 'twill cost you very dear. 

I've got the first and only bid right in the buggy here ! " 

He sprang right from the buggy-seat, and siezing Hiram King, 

He threw him o'er the garden fence like one would throw a sling. 

' ' Get out ! you lying auctioneer ! get out ! get out ! I say, 

" Or I will brain you in the yard before you get away." 

He caught old Henry by the seat and pitched him through the gate ; 

"I'll show you how to trespass on an orphan's real estate." 

" You bloody dog !" growled Hiram King ; "I want the proof the — day." 

'i'his run-away is not of age until the last of May." 

Then Phoebe smiled and from her dress her mother's Bible took, 

And showed the day that she was born right in the Holy book. 

Then Hiram cursed and stamped his feet, " I don't believe a word. 

" I'll sue you for my window panes and for that hussy's board." 

" Hold on! " said Doctor Wilson, now, who with the sheriff came I 
" You settle first with Phoebe here, and then I'll pay your claim. 
For ' forced detainer ' I indict and ' robbing of the mail.' 
A thousand pounds is just the fine, and five long years in jail." 



90 HOLLAND BANE. 

'I'lien Henry to the people cried : "I see it's all a sell. 
You can go home, the sale is off. AVhere is ni}'- auction bell ?'* 
Then all the people started home, and Sheriff Henry Hale 
Arrested Hiram where he stood and walked him off to jail. 

Then Rolland tied the tired horse the little house before. 
And helped fair Phoebe to alight and opened wide the door. 

Now Jimmy and Maria King had to the window popped, 

To see what caused the noise without, and why the sale had stopped. 

As soon as Holland saw the man, he struck him in the face. 

" I'll rid this house for once and all of all Kings' cursed race." 

He led him to the open door and gave him one quick shoot. 

And as he shot him through the gate he felt young Holland's boot. 

When Phoebe saw Maria King, she took her by the ear. 

And as she led her out, she said : "Now you f^tay out of here." 

She then grasped Doctor "Wilson's hand and pulled him through the hall, 

And said : " Than such relations have far better none at all. 

But how is darling little Grace ? oh, that sweet angel child! 

If I don't see her very soon I think I shall go wild." 

Then Rolland grasped him by the hand. " I've very much to say ; 

But for the use of your brave horse I first must try to pay." 

" Oh yes ! " cried Phoebe, " that brave horse has saved me all I lost. 

My husband now or that dear horse ? which do I love the most ? " 

To this the noble doctor said : "To vex you I am loth, 

And since you love them both so much, I'll let you keep thera both. 

I've plenty horses in the barn, and buggies not a few ; 

The buggy I'll to Rolland give, and Snow-Drop give to you. " 

Then Phoebe fell upon his neck, and wept and laughed with joy, 
" Oh! never mind," the doctor said, " I'll name the coming boj^" 
Then Rolland grasped him by the hand : "I can't express my ]oj. 
Your horse shall have the best of care, and you shall name the boy. 









HOLLAND BANE. 91 

* ' I'll bid 3'ou now good-by he said. Don't seek yourselves to hide ; 
My house will open for you stand — the latch will be outside." 

The doctor passed the garden gate — was walking up the way, 

When Grace came running down the street. " Why, what's the matter. 

pray? 
The people all are going home and some seem quite provoked ; 
And some are laughing all the way, and saying they were joked. 
And as I came along the street, I just saw Sheriff Hale 
Lead Hiram King across the street and lock him up in jail. 
What ! Snow-Drop here ? good gracious, pa ! and where is Phoebe and — " 
Just then the door flew open wide and Phoebe waved her hand ; 
Then Phoebe cried, ** here I Gracy, here ! " and Gracy with a bound 
Rushed right into sweet Phoebe's arms and cried, "The lost is found ! " 

They hugged and kissed and cried and laughed, then hugged and kissed 

again, 
"Say, shall I call you Phoebe, now, or are you Mrs. Bane?" 
They now stood out at full arm's length and viewed each other o'er, 
Then laughed and cried, and hugged and kissed, just as they did before. 
Then Rolland, coming up, exclaimed : "I didn't think to see 
My little wife most choked to death, just save a few for me.'* 
Then folding Gracy in his arms he kissed her twice again. 
"Then you are Rolland's happy wife, and you are Doctor Bane." 
Then Phoede said, "I almost died to see you darling Grace." 
And Gracy said, "I was near dead to see your kind sweet face. 
Now tell me where you both have been? where travelled high and low? 
When you were married ? what you've seen ? Yes ; tell me all you know. 

"Come, Gracy," Doctor Wilson said, " you must go home with me ; 

The doctor and his little wife can come with us for tea." 

" Oh, no I dear doctor!" Phoebe cried, "please let her stay with us; 

Pve got a thousand things to tell ; I'm now all in a fuss. 

The little cottage seems so sweet, I've been so long away, 

I cannot think to leave it now for one night and a day." 



92 



ROLLAND BANE. 



Then Dr. Wilson said good night, and Gracy staj^ed for tea; 

And Rolland showed the faithful horse where his new home should be. 

Old Hiram King was brought to trial and in a convict's cell, 

1 le served five years for Phoebe's wrongs and robbing of the mail. 

The court awarded damages to Fanny Rollins' heir, 

And Phoebe got a thousand pounds in justice to the fair. 




I 



